When managing a client with diabetic ketoacidosis, what is the first priority action for the nurse?

In the management of a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the first priority action is to start an intravenous line and infuse normal saline. This step is critical because fluid resuscitation is essential to restore intravascular volume, which is often depleted due to osmotic diuresis caused by high blood glucose levels. Normal saline helps to rehydrate the patient, correct electrolyte imbalances, and improve perfusion to vital organs.

Restoring adequate fluid volume is crucial before initiating other interventions like insulin therapy or monitoring potassium levels, as dehydration can exacerbate complications associated with DKA. Effective fluid management helps to stabilize the patient and prepares them for subsequent treatments, such as insulin administration, which will help resolve hyperglycemia and metabolic acidosis.