Ace the 2026 RN Endocrine Exam – Empower Your Nursing Journey!

IV regular insulin plays a critical role in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) primarily by lowering blood glucose levels. In DKA, patients typically present with significantly elevated blood glucose due to insulin deficiency, which leads to hyperglycemia and subsequent osmotic diuresis. Administering IV regular insulin facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells by mimicking the action of endogenous insulin, thus reducing blood glucose levels effectively.

This reduction in blood glucose is essential to stop the metabolic derangement seen in DKA. As glucose levels decrease, the production of ketone bodies is reduced, leading to a correction in acidosis and stabilization of the patient. The rapid action of IV regular insulin is particularly important in acute settings, as it provides a more immediate effect compared to other forms of insulin.

Other options, while they may relate to different physiological processes, do not accurately capture the primary function of IV regular insulin in the context of DKA management. For example, while insulin does participate in metabolic processes, it does not directly increase metabolic rate or act as a diuretic, nor is it intended to provide an immediate energy supply; its main focus in DKA is to correct hyperglycemia and promote utilization of glucose.