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Diabetic ketoacidosis: implications for the medical-surgical nurse
1Jewish Hospital College of Nursing and Allied Health, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Medsurg Nursing : Official Journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses
|May 8, 1999
Abstract:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute complication associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus. DKA accounts for a significant portion of annual health care expenditures and is considered a medical emergency. Previously treated in the ICU, DKA is now treated on general medical-surgical nursing units. To manage this crisis successfully, medical-surgical nurses must have a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and treatment protocols. A critical pathway is presented to guide clinical care.