You Had Me at Sugar: Understanding the Physiology and Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

Despite the fact that diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a frequently encountered endocrinological condition in the adult ICU, many nurses remain unfamiliar with its physiology and only somewhat familiar with rationale for treatment. This advanced session describes pathophysiology and management of DKA in the adult ICU. IV fluid and insulin therapy, electrolyte replacement, blood glucose control and avoiding complications highlight essential strategies to effectively manage this unique condition.

Objectives

Explain the pathophysiology of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and signs and symptoms observed in adult critically ill patients.
Describe management of DKA in the ICU, with emphasis on IV fluids, insulin, electrolytes and glucose control.
Identify complications that can occur in DKA and strategies for effectively decreasing the severity of adverse events.

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Criteria for Awarding Contact Hours

Learners must complete the entire activity and the associated evaluation AND read Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP 1036, for {contactHours} contact hours.

Disclosures

The Nurse Planner has determined that no individuals with the ability to control content of this activity have relevant relationships with ineligible companies.

Activities with pharmacotherapeutic credit are to assist the APRN in fulfilling their education requirements for licensure and certification renewals.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.