The nurse is caring for a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis. As part of the treatment plan, which action should the nurse take first?

Explanation

• Fluid replacement is a priority in order to prevent vascular collapse due to severe dehydration.

• Insulin administration is important, but hydration is the priority.

• Determining the cause or trigger is important, but fluid resuscitation is the priority.

• Administering potassium may be needed after insulin therapy is initiated, but this is not a priority at this time. Insulin transports potassium into the cell, potentially causing hypokalemia.

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