A 45-year-old male with type 1 diabetes presents with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Initial labs show glucose 650 mg/dL, pH 7.18, bicarbonate 10 mEq/L, and potassium 3.0 mEq/L. After initiating intravenous insulin and normal saline, what is the most critical next step in managing his electrolytes?

Question

BrainForge Quiz · Accepted Answer

B) Add potassium to the intravenous fluids.. Despite normal or elevated initial serum potassium, patients with DKA have significant total body potassium depletion. Once insulin is started, potassium rapidly shifts intracellularly, leading to severe hypokalemia. Given an initial potassium of 3.0 mEq/L, potassium replacement must be started immediately with insulin.

A 45-year-old male with type 1 diabetes presents with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Initial labs show glucose 650 mg/dL, pH 7.18, bicarbonate 10 mEq/L, and potassium 3.0 mEq/L. After initiating intravenous insulin and normal saline, what is the most critical next step in managing his electrolytes?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

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