Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) Overview

These flashcards cover the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, medical management, nursing interventions, and patient education for Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) based on the lecture notes.

DKA is characterized by uncontrolled __________, metabolic acidosis, and increased productions of ketones.

hyperglycemia

Individuals with diabetes who take __________ may develop DKA because these medications increase blood sugar.

corticosteroids

While DKA most often occurs in Type 1 diabetics, it can occur in Type 2 patients under severe stress such as trauma, surgery, or __________.

infection

The most common precipitating factor for DKA is __________.

infection

The classic sign of excessive hunger seen in DKA is known as __________.

polyphagia

Typical lab findings in DKA include a glucose level greater than $250$, a pH less than $7.35$, and HCO3 less than $21$.

$250$; $7.35$; $21$

Dehydration and renal impact in DKA are indicated by a BUN level greater than $30$ and Creatinine greater than $1.5$.

$30$; $1.5$

The medical management of DKA involves reversing acidosis using a __________ insulin drip.

Regular

Initial fluid replacement for DKA involves $0.9\%$ sodium chloride (NSS) at a rate of $500\,ml$ to $1000\,ml/hr$ for a duration of $2-3$ hours.

$500\,ml$ to $1000\,ml/hr$; $2-3$ hours

When restoring electrolytes in a DKA patient, the electrolyte of major concern is __________.

Potassium

Nurses must carefully assess the IV site because potassium is a __________, which can cause the IV line to blow.

vesicant

Signs of fluid volume excess or overload include crackles, distended neck veins, edema, weight gain, orthopnea, and __________.

SOB

According to S.I.C.K. day rules, a patient should still take their __________ and replace carbohydrates even if they are ill.

insulin

During sick days, blood sugar and urine ketones should be checked every $2$ to $4$ hours.

$2$ to $4$

A patient following sick day rules should call their physician if they are __________ persistently.

vomiting