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.
ICU, St. Joseph's Health Care, London.
Christina
C
Hurlock-Chorostecki
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