Category Archives: Acute Complication of Diabetes

Typically, HHNK syndrome starts slowly. Over days or weeks, the patient experiences extreme thirst and excessive urination. Because these early signs and symptoms may be mistakenly attributed to another cause, appropriate medical care may not begin until after she becomes … Continue reading →

Review the onset, peak, and duration of action of the insulin your patient uses. When her insulin is at peak effect, check her for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. Be familiar with oral antidiabetic drugs that can cause hypoglycemia, such … Continue reading →

Whether your patient recently learned that she has diabetes or she has been treating herself for years, during her hospitalization you should teachor reinforce-certain essential information about hypoglycemia. Be sure you cover the following areas: Explore the possible causes of … Continue reading →

The early signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia tend to be autonomic. Neuroglycopenic signs and symptoms generally appear later. Autonomic Signs and Symptoms nervousness tremors palpitations diaphoresis anxiety pallor irritability hunger paresthesia Neuroglycopenic Signs and Symptoms dizziness headache lack of coordination … Continue reading →

To help confirm a diagnosis of DKA and guide treatment, the physician may order laboratory measurements of: blood glucose blood bicarbonate blood urea nitrogen (BUN) hematocrit urine specific gravity blood osmolality white blood cell (WBC) count blood phosphate blood potassium … Continue reading →

Providing nursing care to a patient with DKA presents a multisystem challenge. To prevent serious complications, think critically and act quickly.During fluid replacement, assess your patient’s fluid balance to ensure adequate hydration without the complications of fluid overload. Evaluate her … Continue reading →

An acute complication of diabetes can quickly deteriorate into a metabolic crisis. Hypoglycemia, for instance, can make your patient’s mental status decrease quickly. Left untreated, she can become comatose and suffer permanent brain damage. Acute hyperglycemia can also trigger dangerous … Continue reading →

If acute illness or infection isn’t the cause of your patient’s hyperglycemia, it may be her diet, exercise level, or drugs. Or she may not be hyperglycemic, but may appear to be because she uses an incorrect technique for self-monitoring … Continue reading →