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Diabetic ketoacidosis — DIPIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateMedical EmergenciesDiabetic ketoacidosisDIPIMCDipIMC

A young man with type 1 diabetes has been vomiting. He has deep sighing breathing, a fruity smell on his breath, a capillary glucose reading of 'HI', drowsiness and clinical dehydration.

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Give intravenous fluids and arrange urgent transport, anticipating diabetic ketoacidosis

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as B · B = shown as C · A = shown as D · D = shown as E

The picture is of diabetic ketoacidosis, and pre-hospital management consists of intravenous fluid resuscitation and rapid transport; insulin (A) is not given as a field bolus because it is delivered as a controlled fixed-rate infusion in hospital with potassium monitoring. Oral glucose (C) and glucagon (D) are for hypoglycaemia, the opposite problem. Resuscitate with fluids and convey - insulin and electrolytes are managed in hospital.

Reference: JRCALC Clinical Guidelines; JBDS DKA guidance