A 16-year-old girl with type 1 diabetes mellitus presents to the emergency department with polyuria, polydipsia, abdominal pain, and confusion. Her blood glucose is 550 mg/dL, arterial pH is 7.15, and bicarbonate is 8 mEq/L. Serum ketones are strongly positive. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial fluid management strategy?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
Initial fluid resuscitation in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) requires isotonic saline (0.9% Normal Saline) to restore intravascular volume and correct dehydration. Dextrose is added later when glucose levels decrease to prevent hypoglycemia.