DKA

Question 1

What are the three main characteristics of DKA?

Answer 1

Hyperglycaemia, acidosis, ketonemia

Question 2

What is triggered when insulin is ineffective at providing cells with glucose for energy?

Answer 2

Glucagon is released from the liver which breaks down stored glucose in the bloodstream

Question 3

Name some of the potential causes of DKA

Answer 3

Infection, stress, poor control of BGL, medications, hormonal changes

Question 4

When are ketones found in the bloodstream?

Answer 4

When the body begins to break down fat cells for energy because it thinks it’s starved of sugar. Causing the blood to become acidic

Question 5

What is osmotic diuresis?

Answer 5

When hyperglycaemia surpasses the renal thresh hold and glucose is secreted in the urine. This depletes sodium, potassium, phosphates and water, resulting in dehydration and electrolytes imbalance

Question 6

At what BGL reading should ketones be checked?

Answer 6

> 11.1mmol/l

Question 7

What reading is considered positive on a ketone test?

Answer 7

> 0.6mmol/l

Question 8

List symptoms of DKA

Answer 8

Tachypnoea, dehydration, flushed skin, fruit smelling breath, headache, fatigue, aches, nausea and vomiting, polydipsia

Question 9

At what pH range is the blood considered acidic?

Answer 9

< 7.3

Question 10

What is BC03?

Answer 10

Bicarbonate, a by-product of metabolism that falls below 15-18mmol/l in DKA

Question 11

What is the primary treatment for DKA?

Answer 11

Insulin replacement therapy, infused IV at a slow rate with regular BGL

Question 12

What does ACTRAPID stand for?

Answer 12

Airway, breathing, circulation
Commence fluid resuscitation
Treat potassium
Replace insulin
Acidosis management
Prevent complications
Information for patients
Discharge

Question 13

Name a serious complication of DKA

Answer 13

Cerebral edema

Question 14

What does RELATE stand for?

Answer 14

Relate
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