MariaCarter06

what is the rationale for using a large bore 18 gauge needles for a patient who comes in the ER unconscious with Diabetic Ketoacidosis? is it simply to be able to administer a large volume of fluid?

Pt. comes into the ER unconscious, daughter says that her mother has had the flu and been unable eat or drink very much. She is also unsure if her mother has taken her insulin in the past 24 hours. Her VS: Resp:22 deep and fruity odor Temp:101.8 Pulse:120 weak and irregular BP:80/42 1. What type of IV fluids would be prepared for this patient. I know that they would be mixed with Potassium to replace the loss. 0.9% initially? 2. During the first 24 hours, what complications should the nurse monitor for and why? A physician prescribes blood glucose monitoring instead of urine testing.. is this because Blood glucose is more accurate because it monitors whats in the blood stream and urine can't detect disinguish between low and normal blood glucose? Thanks for the assistance. It's greatly appreciated