Hypoglycemia is the most common complication of diabetic ketoacidosis while being treated, occurring in an estimated 5–25% of patients with DKA. [37] Acute adverse outcomes of hypoglycemia include seizures, arrhythmias, and cardiovascular events. Hourly blood sugar monitoring is needed in the acute phase of treatment.
Besides, what are some complications of diabetes?
Diabetes Complications Are Related
- Heart disease and stroke: People with diabetes are two times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke as people without diabetes.
- Blindness and other eye problems: …
- Kidney disease: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys and cause chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- 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)
Consequently, what are the three key actions for the management of DKA?
Key DKA management points
- Start intravenous fluids before insulin therapy.
- Potassium level should be >3.3 mEq/L before the initiation of insulin therapy (supplement potassium intravenously if needed).
- Administer priming insulin bolus at 0.1 U/kg and initiate continuous insulin infusion at 0.1 U/kg/h.
What happens after DKA?
Fluid loss from DKA can lead to kidney and organ damage, brain swelling that can eventually cause a coma, and fluid buildup in your lungs. The sooner you’re treated for DKA, the less likely you are to suffer from these major complications.
What is the most appropriate treatment for DKA?
Insulin reverses the processes that cause diabetic ketoacidosis. In addition to fluids and electrolytes, you’ll receive insulin therapy — usually through a vein.
What is the most common complication of insulin therapy?
Hypoglycemia is the most common and most serious complication of insulin therapy. Hypoglycemia can be potentially life-threatening. Most patients who use insulin experience hypoglycemia at one time or another.
Why is potassium given in diabetic ketoacidosis?
Replacement of potassium in intravenous fluids is the standard of care in treatment of DKA to prevent the potential consequences of hypokalemia including cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory failure.