ADDRESSING DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS

Updated 1/26

Dear nurses,

New information has been added below.

Enjoy learning!

The diabetic patient is at risk for many
 complications. Here are some of  the
 complications that may occur:

- DKA- diabetic ketoacidosis

- Retinopathy

- PVD 

- Poor wound healing

- Hypo/ hyperglycemia

Learn more about : Insulin reaction

Avoiding medication errors

Clinical appearance of the patient in DKA

Scenario: Tom was admitted to the ICU, with the clinical

picture of a patient in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). His blood
glucose was 600. Tom has an altered level of consciousness (LOC).
He also has hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose).
Please watch the video below:
Dehydration

Signs and symptoms of DKA

The patient in DKA requires immediate intervention and a level
 of care like ICU.

Some signs that may appear include:

- Hyperglycemia

- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)

- Tachypnea (rapid breathing)

- Polyuria (excessive urination)

- Polydipsia (excessive thirst)

- Flushed face

- Breath has a fruity odor

Please enjoy the video:
Patient education

Medical management is necessary for the patient in DKA.
Frequent monitoring of blood glucose, Insulin IV, Potassium
replacements are included in the management.

  Insulin - Hormone of the pancreas

 Insulin is a hormone which is produced
in the pancreas by special glands known
as the Islets of Langerhans.

When we eat a meal like hamburger, fries and milkshake,
Insulin is released in the blood stream to control blood glucose.
The liver stores glucose in the form of glycogen. If the pancreas
is not able to produce insulin, diabetes ensues.

Diabetes Mellitus may be Type 1 or Type 2. 

Diabetic complications

Scenario: Sara is a young adult who was diagnosed 
with Type 2 diabetes, about a year ago. She has now
been admitted for visual problems.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Sara's eye exam reveals Diabetic Retinopathy. This 
condition affects the blood vessels in the eye. Poor
vision and possible blindness may result from leaking
and weakening of the blood vessels.

Diabetic Nephropathy

This condition may further complicated diabetes.
Poor renal function and possibly renal failure may
result. Hemodialysis then becomes necessary.

The consequences of poor circulation

The patient who has heart failure,
is also at risk for stroke or renal failure.
The diabetetic patient is also at risk for stroke.

Learn more : Poor circulation