What is the main difference between DKA and HHS?
DKA is characterized by ketoacidosis and hyperglycemia, while HHS usually has more severe hyperglycemia but no ketoacidosis (table 1). Each represents an extreme in the spectrum of hyperglycemia.
Why is serum osmolality high in DKA?
Patients with DKA and high serum osmolality (due to high levels of glucose [a measured substance] and ketoacids [unmeasured]) will respond with reduced serum sodium levels in an effort to maintain serum osmolality as close to normal as possible. Treatment of DKA produces a drop in glucose and ketoacid levels.
What is DKA in diabetics?
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes that occurs when your body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. The condition develops when your body can’t produce enough insulin.
What are the key nursing responsibilities when treating DKA?
Nursing Management
- Monitor vitals.
- Check blood sugars and treat with insulin as ordered.
- Start two large-bore IVs.
- Administer fluids as recommended.
- Check electrolytes as potassium levels will drop with insulin treatment.
- Check renal function.
- Assess mental status.
- Look for signs of infection (a common cause of DKA)
How do you manage DKA in the ER?
The key to avoiding cerebral edema in the management of DKA is to go slow with resuscitation.
- Avoid over-aggressive fluid administration.
- Do not drop the glucose too fast; avoid reducing the glucose below <200 mg/dL (<11.1 mmol)
- Replace fluids gradually.
How to treat DKA treatment?
Diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed by an elevated blood sugar (glucose) level, elevated blood ketones and acidity of the blood (acidosis). The treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis is insulin, fluids and electrolyte therapy. Diabetic ketoacidosis can be prevented by taking insulin as prescribed and monitoring glucose and ketone levels.
What lab values indicate diabetic ketoacidosis?
What lab values indicate DKA? Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by a serum glucose level greater than 250 mg per dL, a pH less than 7.3, a serum bicarbonate level less than 18 mEq per L, an elevated serum ketone level, and dehydration.
How does ketoacidosis cause death?
How does ketoacidosis cause death? In diabetic ketoacidosis, ketones build up in the blood, seriously altering the normal chemistry of the blood and interfering with the function of multiple organs. They make the blood acidic, which causes vomiting and abdominal pain. If the acid level of the blood becomes extreme, ketoacidosis can cause
What are the ADA guidelines for diabetes?
ADA Recommendations: Screening for Diabetes or Prediabetes in Asymptomatic Adults 1. Testing should be considered in overweight or obese (BMI >25 kg/m2 or > 23 kg/m2 in Asian Americans) adults who have one or more of the following risks factors: First degree relative with diabetes