Managing diabetic ketoacidosis: the role of the ICU nurse in an endocrine emergency.
Diabetic ketoacidosis is an endocrine emergency that requires intensive management and monitoring. Eight per cent of diabetic-related admissions are for the management of diabetic ketoacidosis and, prior to the discovery of insulin, all of these patients died (Delaney, Zisman & Kettyle, 2000). In this article, the author reviews the pathophysiology of the classic presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis: hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis. The management of the acute situation is described in order to enable the critical care nurse to provide and advocate for best patient care practices.
Hurlock-Chorostecki
Christina
C
ICU, St. Joseph's Health Care, London.
D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D008875:Middle Aged; D014883:Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / Q000628:therapy
D007328:Insulin