20/07/2026
✅ Correct Answer: A. Dawn phenomenon
Rationale
The dawn phenomenon is early-morning hyperglycemia that occurs due to the nighttime release of hormones such as growth hormone and cortisol. These hormones increase glucose production by the liver and can cause blood glucose to rise between about 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM.
This is not caused by nighttime hypoglycemia. It is caused by normal overnight hormone release.
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Option Analysis
✅ A. Dawn phenomenon
Correct. Early-morning hyperglycemia caused by nighttime hormone release is consistent with the dawn phenomenon.
❌ B. Somogyi effect
Incorrect. Somogyi effect is rebound morning hyperglycemia caused by nighttime hypoglycemia followed by counterregulatory hormone release.
❌ C. Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome HHS
Incorrect. HHS is a serious complication usually seen in type 2 diabetes with extreme hyperglycemia and dehydration.
❌ D. Diabetic ketoacidosis DKA
Incorrect. DKA is an acute emergency with hyperglycemia, ketones, metabolic acidosis, dehydration, and often Kussmaul respirations.
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NCLEX Pearls
✅ Dawn phenomenon = early morning hyperglycemia.
✅ Caused by nighttime hormone release, especially growth hormone and cortisol.
✅ Somogyi effect = rebound hyperglycemia after nighttime hypoglycemia.
✅ Check overnight glucose trends to tell the difference.
✅ Dawn phenomenon usually does not include 2–3 AM hypoglycemia.
Memory Trick
“Dawn = hormones rise as the sun rises.”
Final Answer: ✅ A. Dawn phenomenon
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