Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Review and Update

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) remains a significant complication of diabetes in both the United States and around the world. Diabetic ketoacidosis remains a significant complication of diabetes in both the United States and worldwide with its associated high rates of hospital admissions. Therefore, it becomes vital that the healthcare professional be able to manage the hyperglycemic crises associated with diabetes. Moreover, with increasing healthcare costs and a changing healthcare system, prevention of diabetic ketoacidosis remains essential. Though management of diabetic ketoacidosis has followed a set algorithm for many years, there are exciting management alternatives on the horizon such as subcutaneous insulin administration for uncomplicated DKA patients. By understanding DKA, including its pathogenesis, presentation, treatment, and prevention, admissions may be decreased and length of stay shortened.