Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Patient Safety, Preventive & Ethics — 10yo Child | Patient Safety | SMLE Q#912
SMLE Question #912
Patient Safety, Preventive & Ethics
Patient Safety
Last updated: February 2026
A 10-year-old boy with type 1 diabetes mellitus presents to the emergency department with 2 days of missed insulin, abdominal pain, vomiting, and rapid deep breathing. He has dry mucous membranes and fruity breath. After initial assessment, he receives intravenous fluids only and is discharged without starting definitive therapy or arranging inpatient monitoring. He returns several hours later with worsening confusion and requires intensive care. What type of medical error best describes the physician’s initial management?
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