Diabetic Ketoacidosis

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • Shock present?
  • Airway protection intact?
  • Other diagnoses present (ACS, sepsis, pancreatitis, etc.)?
  • Establish cause:
    • Infection (>30%): pneumonia, UTI, cellulitis, fungal sinusitis, perirectal abscess, necrotizing fasciitis
    • Insulin issues (20-35%): missed doses, pump malfunction, undertreatment
    • Interfering medications: thiazides, -blockers, glucocorticoids, protease inhibitors
    • Glucose containing IV fluids, total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
    • Dietary non-compliance

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Last updated: April 26, 2010