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Diabetic ketoacidosis red flags — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsDiabetic ketoacidosis red flagsGPhC CRA

A 19-year-old with type 1 diabetes asks for ketone strips. She has abdominal pain, vomiting, thirst and deep breathing after missing insulin yesterday. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Refer immediately for emergency assessment for possible ketoacidosis

Vomiting, abdominal pain, thirst and deep breathing after missed insulin suggest diabetic ketoacidosis. This is a medical emergency and insulin should not be stopped during illness without specialist advice. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: NICE CKS