Question

A 28-year-old with new DKA (pH 7.12, glucose 520 mg/dL) arrives. What is the correct initial insulin and potassium strategy?

Accepted Answer

Hold insulin until K⁺ ≥3.3 mEq/L; replace potassium first

Answer

Bicarbonate 10 mEq/L

Answer

K⁺ 3.0 mEq/L

Answer

Start insulin immediately regardless of K⁺

Answer

Then start IV insulin 0.1 U/kg/h

Practice question

A 28-year-old with new DKA (pH 7.12, glucose 520 mg/dL) arrives. What is the correct initial insulin and potassium strategy?