title: Procedures and medications to help patients control their diabetes.
abstract: Two of the most common acute and potentially life-threatening complications of diabetes mellitus are diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state. Both conditions are characterised by hyperglycaemic states, but nurses should be aware of important differences so the correct condition and treatment can be identified. Treatment includes immediate referral to specialist diabetes teams and possible transfer to intensive care. This article outlines the similarities and differences in the symptoms and treatment of the conditions, and discusses prevention strategies.
authors.affiliation: Bronglais General Hospital, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion. garpama@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Maria del Carmen
authors.initials: Mdel C
authors.lastname: Garcia-Pascual
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kidby
mesh_terms: D016883:Diabetic Ketoacidosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy; D005440:Fluid Therapy; D006801:Humans; D006944:Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Coma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007328:Insulin / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D007328:Insulin