🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A 28-year-old female with Type 1 Diabetes presents with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion. Her blood glucose is 550 mg/dL, pH 7.15, bicarbonate 8 mEq/L, and anion gap 24. After initiating intravenous fluids, what is the immediate priority in her management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

A Administer continuous intravenous insulin infusion
B Administer intravenous sodium bicarbonate
C Give a large bolus of regular insulin subcutaneously
D Initiate oral potassium supplementation

✓ Correct Answer: Option A

After initial fluid resuscitation, continuous intravenous insulin infusion is the cornerstone of DKA management. It lowers blood glucose, corrects acidosis, and suppresses ketogenesis. Bicarbonate is rarely indicated, and potassium is given after insulin if levels drop.

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