NGN Child Health Diabetic Ketoacidosis Case Study

A free unfolding Next Generation NCLEX pediatric case study on new-onset diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Six NGN items cover recognising cues, differentiating DKA from gastroenteritis and appendicitis, drag-and-drop complication risks, anticipated interventions, prioritising care, and evaluating outcomes — with full rationales after you submit.

Free · No login required · 6 unfolding NGN items · Partial-credit scoring

Item 1 of 6

Question 1 of 6

Scenario

The following scenario applies to the next 6 items. The nurse in the pediatric emergency department cares for a 10-year-old female client.

Health History

A 10-year-old female presents to the emergency department with her father, who reports she has had increased thirst and urination for the past 2 weeks, including waking up at night to use the bathroom. Over the past 3 days, she has had nausea, vomiting twice today, and abdominal pain. Her father states she has "lost weight even though she's been eating more than usual" and seems unusually tired. This morning, he noticed her breathing seemed "fast and deep" and her breath had a strange, fruity odor. She has no significant past medical history and takes no home medications. Family history is significant for type 1 diabetes mellitus in a maternal aunt. Immunizations are up to date.

Assessment — 1015

SystemFindings
NeurologicLethargic but arousable to voice; oriented to person only
HEENTDry mucous membranes; sunken eyes; fruity-scented breath
RespiratoryDeep, rapid respirations; lungs clear to auscultation bilaterally
CardiovascularS1 and S2 present; no murmur; capillary refill 3 seconds
GastrointestinalAbdomen soft, diffusely tender to palpation; bowel sounds hypoactive x4 quadrants; emesis x1 in triage
IntegumentarySkin warm, poor turgor with tenting noted on forearm
UrologicalReports frequent urination; last voided 1 hour ago, large volume

Vital Signs — 1015

Vital SignValue
Temperature98.9°F (37.2°C)
Heart Rate128 bpm
Respiratory Rate34/min, deep
Blood Pressure92/58 mmHg
Pulse Oximetry98% on room air
Weight61 lb (27.7 kg); father reports usual weight ~68 lb (30.8 kg)
Point-of-care glucose486 mg/dL (27.0 mmol/L)

The nurse has reviewed the Health History, Vital Signs for 1015, and Assessment for 1015. Select the top 5 findings that require immediate follow-up.

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