Management of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults

Noble-Bell G, Cox A (2014) Management of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults. Nursing Times; 110: 10, 14–17. Ketoacidosis is a serious complication of diabetes. It is commonly precipitated by poor adherence to medication, stress and concurrent illness; it can be life threatening if it is not addressed quickly and effectively. This article discusses the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of the condition, and highlights the nurse's role in this.

•This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes, making it a medical emergency. Nurses need to know how to identify and manage it