What term describes the rapid and deep respirations seen in a client with diabetic ketoacidosis?

Kussmaul respirations are characterized by rapid, deep, and labored breathing. This type of respiration is a compensatory mechanism that the body uses to increase the exhalation of carbon dioxide in response to metabolic acidosis, which is a hallmark of diabetic ketoacidosis. In this condition, the body accumulates acids due to the breakdown of fats for energy, leading to an increase in acidity in the blood. Kussmaul respira­tions help to correct this acidosis by increasing the pH levels back towards normal through enhanced ventilation.

The other terms listed refer to different respiratory patterns: Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by alternating periods of deep and shallow breathing, often seen in patients with severe brain injury or heart failure. Apnea is the temporary cessation of breathing, which is not applicable in this context, as the focus is on rapid and deep breaths. Orthopnea describes difficulty breathing while lying flat, typically associated with heart failure. Thus, Kussmaul respirations specifically refer to the distinct rapid and deep breathing associated with diabetic ketoacidosis.