Question

A patient with DKA has K⁺ 2.9 mEq/L, pH 7.18, glucose 520 mg/dL. What is the immediate next step?

Accepted Answer

Give IV potassium before insulin

Answer

Start insulin infusion at 0.1 units/kg/h

Answer

Give IV sodium bicarbonate bolus

Answer

Start dextrose infusion now

Answer

No potassium needed until urine output established

Practice question

A patient with DKA has K⁺ 2.9 mEq/L, pH 7.18, glucose 520 mg/dL. What is the immediate next step?