MemotivaNCLEX-RN Flashcards: Diabetes Nursing, Blood Glucose, Insulin Administration

What are the signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis versus hypoglycemia?

NCLEX-RN Flashcards: Diabetes Nursing, Blood Glucose, Insulin Administration

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What are the signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis versus hypoglycemia?

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Diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA, presents with hyperglycemia above 250, Kussmaul respirations which are deep and rapid, fruity acetone breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration, altered consciousness, and a slow onset over hours. Hypoglycemia, below 70, presents with a rapid onset of sweating, tremor, tachycardia, hunger, anxiety, confusion, slurred speech, seizures, and loss of consciousness. DKA is treated with intravenous insulin, fluids, and electrolyte replacement.
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