Immediate plasma potassium levels in treating diabetic ketoacidosis

A patient presented with diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypokalemia (less than 2.0 mmol/L [less than 2.0 mEq/L]). The availability of immediate plasma potassium levels using a blood gas analyzer (Radiometer) prevented the use of potentially hazardous therapy. Potassium levels should be determined immediately using this technology in all patients with ketoacidosis.