Question

A 48-year-old with suspected DKA has K 3.0 mEq/L. Best next step before insulin?

Accepted Answer

Give IV potassium to raise K >3.3 mEq/L, then start insulin

Answer

Start insulin infusion 0.1 units/kg/hr

Answer

Give sodium bicarbonate infusion

Answer

Start subcutaneous insulin immediately

Answer

No potassium needed

Practice question

A 48-year-old with suspected DKA has K 3.0 mEq/L. Best next step before insulin?