Which signs are indicative of hyperglycemia?

Prepare for the TAMECT First Responder Clearing Test with comprehensive hints and explanations. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions to ensure your success!

The signs indicative of hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, include the smell of acetone, rapid breathing, and altered mental status (AMS).

The smell of acetone is often described as a fruity odor and can occur when the body begins to break down fat for energy instead of glucose, which is a common occurrence in poorly controlled diabetes when there is a lack of insulin. Rapid, deep breathing, known as Kussmaul respiration, is a compensatory mechanism that occurs as the body attempts to remove excess carbon dioxide resulting from metabolic acidosis, which can accompany hyperglycemia. Altered mental status can occur when extremely high blood sugar levels lead to confusion and lethargy due to the brain's inability to use glucose effectively, as well as from the effects of dehydration and ketoacidosis.

This reasoning confirms that the symptoms listed provide a clear picture of hyperglycemia, whereas the other choices present signs that might be associated with different conditions, such as dehydration or cardiovascular issues.

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