74. Which imbalance is a client recovering from hyperglycemia at greatest risk of developing?
Test-Taking Tip
Hypoglycemia is too obvious. Remember that K+ moves with glucose into the cell.
Content Area: Adult Health, Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Comprehension; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances
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Answer 1 is incorrect because, before the client experiences hypoglycemia, the potassium level drops below normal. Answer 2 is correct because, as glucose moves back into the cell with insulin treatment, potassium moves back into the cell, causing a low serum level and a risk of hypokalemia. Answer 3 is incorrect because a client who is hyperglycemic and in ketoacidosis is usually dehydrated, so serum sodium is elevated, and then returns to normal. Answer 4 is incorrect because low calcium is not associated with hyperglycemia. Low calcium occurs from accidental removal of the parathyroid glands or with renal dysfunction.
