An untreated patient with diabetes mellitus who is in a state of ketoacidosis will
(A) be breathing rapidly
(B) be breathing slowly
C) excrete an alkaline urine
(D) excrete a urine with the pH of 7

A patient with diabetes mellitus in a state of ketoacidosis will typically exhibit rapid breathing, known as Kussmaul respirations. This compensatory mechanism helps to blow off excess carbon dioxide to combat acidosis, aiming to normalize blood pH levels.

In addition to rapid breathing, you’ll also find that their urine tends to be more acidic, often leading to a pH lower than 7. Ketoacidosis results in ketone bodies being excreted through urine, contributing to the acidic environment. It’s important to monitor these symptoms closely for effective management!