Which type of breathing pattern is classically observed at the bedside during acute diabetic ketoacidosis?
- Biot's
- Cheyne-Stokes
- Kussmaul's
- Apneustic
- Ataxic
Answer: C
Kussmaul's
Kussmaul's is the pulmonary compensation for the metabolic acidosis of DKA. The lungs blow off C02(an acid) to normalize the pH. Remember "K" for Ketoacidosis
Know Your Content Blueprint
Kussmaul's breathing and diabetic ketoacidosis are covered as part of the PANCE Endocrinology Blueprint
Review Topic: Diabetes Mellitus (PEARLS)