North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Maternal exhaustion due to ketoacidosis may present with which symptom?

1. High blood pressure

2. Increased energy

3. Dehydration and weakness

4. Elevated fetal heart rate

The correct answer is: Dehydration and weakness

Maternal exhaustion due to ketoacidosis can lead to symptoms such as dehydration and weakness. In the context of ketoacidosis, the body's metabolism shifts as it begins to break down fat for energy when glucose is not readily available. This process can result in the production of ketones, which leads to an acidotic state in the body. Dehydration often occurs because ketoacidosis can increase urination, leading to significant fluid loss. This fluid loss contributes to overall body weakness and fatigue as the mother feels depleted of energy and unable to maintain normal activity levels. Thus, when assessing a mother experiencing ketoacidosis, signs of dehydration and accompanying weakness are indicators of the body's struggle to cope with the metabolic crisis. This understanding of the physiological response to ketoacidosis is crucial for effectively recognizing and managing complications that can arise during pregnancy. It highlights the importance of monitoring maternal health closely, especially in cases where metabolic imbalances may be present.