Diabetic Ketoacidosis — USMLE Step 2 CK MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Indicated because pH <6.9
ADA consensus allows bicarbonate in severe DKA when pH <6.9 to improve vasomotor response; not routinely otherwise. Absolute contraindication (B) is false. K level (C) is not indication. pH <7.2 (D) is too liberal. Lactate infusion (E) is inappropriate. The keyed option is bicarbonate indicated because pH <6.9; routine bicarbonate is not used at higher pH values.
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/#stage-9-order-5