Question

A 45-year-old with DKA (glucose 468 mg/dL, pH 7.12, anion gap 22) has serum potassium 2.9 mEq/L. After initial fluids, what is the next best step?

Accepted Answer

Administer IV potassium and delay insulin until K⁺ ≥3.3 mEq/L

Answer

Start IV regular insulin infusion 0.1 units/kg/hr now

Answer

Give sodium bicarbonate infusion

Answer

Administer subcutaneous rapid-acting insulin 0.15 units/kg

Answer

Start dextrose-containing fluids immediately

Practice question

A 45-year-old with DKA (glucose 468 mg/dL, pH 7.12, anion gap 22) has serum potassium 2.9 mEq/L. After initial fluids, what is the next best step?