Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 90%
Simulated
A nurse is monitoring a client who has diabetes mellitus and a glucose level of 384 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL). Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of metabolic acidosis?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Increased respiratory rate (Kussmaul breathing) compensates for metabolic acidosis in hyperglycemia, as the body tries to eliminate excess acid.