Question

A 28-year-old with DKA has K⁺ 2.9 mEq/L, venous pH 7.08, bicarbonate 8 mEq/L, and glucose 560 mg/dL. After starting isotonic fluids, what is the next best step?

Accepted Answer

Hold insulin and give IV potassium until K⁺ ≥3.3 mEq/L

Answer

Start IV insulin 0.1 units/kg/h immediately

Answer

Give IV bicarbonate until pH normalizes

Answer

Start insulin and potassium simultaneously

Answer

Administer dextrose 5% immediately

Practice question

A 28-year-old with DKA has K⁺ 2.9 mEq/L, venous pH 7.08, bicarbonate 8 mEq/L, and glucose 560 mg/dL. After starting isotonic fluids, what is the next best step?