North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What factor can contribute to dehydration in patients with hyperglycemia?

1. Low activity levels

2. Excessive urination

3. High protein diet

4. Regular exercise

The correct answer is: Excessive urination

Dehydration in patients with hyperglycemia is significantly influenced by excessive urination, a condition commonly referred to as polyuria. Hyperglycemia leads to an elevated concentration of glucose in the blood. When blood glucose levels surpass the renal threshold, the kidneys cannot reabsorb all the glucose, resulting in glucose spilling into the urine. This causes an osmotic diuresis, where water is drawn into the urine along with the glucose. As more water leaves the body through urine, the patient experiences increased urination, which ultimately leads to dehydration. In contrast, low activity levels, a high protein diet, and regular exercise do not directly cause the osmotic diuresis experienced in hyperglycemia. While low activity may contribute to other health issues and regular exercise typically promotes overall well-being, these factors do not have the same immediate and direct effect on fluid balance in the context of hyperglycemia as excessive urination does.