Do you think the patient will be switched eventually to an oral hypoglycemic agent?How do you anticipate this adolescent social life is going to be affected?

The patient’s symptoms and diagnostic studies were classic for hyperglycemic
ketoacidosis associated with DM. The glycosylated hemoglobin showed that he had been
hyperglycemic over the last several months.
During the first 72 hours of hospitalization, the patient was monitored with frequent
serum glucose determinations. Insulin was administered according to the results of these
studies. His condition was eventually stabilized on 40 units of Humulin N insulin daily.
He was converted to an insulin pump and did very well with that. Comprehensive patient
instruction regarding self-blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration, diet, exercise,
foot care, and recognition of the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia and
hypoglycemia was given.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. Why was this patient in metabolic acidosis?
2. Do you think the patient will be switched eventually to an oral hypoglycemic agent?
3. How do you anticipate this adolescent social life is going to be affected?
4. How could you help this patient to be compliant with his treatment?