![]() ![]() This is a serious diabetic emergency that carries a mortality rate of 10% to 50%. Patients with hyperglycemia may also exhibit a non-ketotic hyperosmolar state, also known as hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS). Be alert for vomiting and monitor cardiac rhythm. Untreated DKA can be fatal. They pass large amounts of urine because of the high solute concentration of the blood and the body’s attempts to get rid of excess sugar.ĭKA is treated with the administration of fluids and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, as well as insulin. Patients in DKA also undergo osmotic diuresis. DKA occurs when insulin is extremely low and blood sugar is extremely high.ĭKA presents clinically with symptoms of hyperglycemia as above, Kussmaul respiration (deep, rapid, and laboured breathing that is the result of the body attempting to blow off excess carbon dioxide to compensate for the metabolic acidosis), acetone-odoured breath, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain (Canadian Diabetes Association, 2013). If hyperglycemia is not treated, the patient is at risk for developing DKA. This is a life-threatening condition in which the body produces acids, called ketones, as a result of breaking down fat for energy. Blood glucose levels should be taken one to two hours after eating. Note that testing blood glucose levels too soon after eating will result in higher blood glucose readings. Increased intake of calories (IV or diet). ![]() Potential causes of hyperglycemia in a hospitalized patient include: Other symptoms include glycosuria, nausea and vomiting, abdominal cramps, and progression to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
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