The management of diabetic ketoacidosis
Hammersley, M.; Edge, J.
Acute Medicine 6(1): 3-8
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 1747-4884 PMID: 21611606 Document Number: 18264
This article reviews the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in adults with a focus on the three basic principles of treatment: intravenous fluid therapy, intravenous insulin administration and potassium replacement. The recommendations are modelled on the national guidance for the management of DKA in children. We highlight the importance of being alert to signs of life-threatening complications of the condition such as cerebral oedema and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We also discuss the use of near-patient testing of capillary beta-hydroxybutyrate (b-OHB) using a ketone meter as an aid to managing and preventing DKA.
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