Diabetic Ketoacidosis ( DKA )

Question 1

What is DKA ?

Answer 1

• DKA is a serious condition, occurs to people with DM. Where the lack of insuline causes build up of the substance ketones in the blood.

Question 2

Symptoms?

Answer 2

• Polyuria
• Polydipsia
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Breathing more deeply than usual
• Blurred vision

Question 3

Lab test?

Answer 3

• ABG
• Serum ketone test
  • < 0.6 mmol/L —> Normal
  • 0.6 - 1.5 mmol/L —> Slightly high, test again in 2hours
  • 1.5 - 3 mmol/L —> At risk of having DKA
  • > 3 mmol/L —> You have DKA
• Blood glucose test every 1-2 hours until patient is stable, then every 4-6 hours

Question 4

Treatment/Management ?

Answer 4

• Admitted to the hospital
• You will be given insulin, fluids and nutrients through a drip into your vein
• Monitored for complications