Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Insulin + fluids + K⁺

First 30 seconds

  1. 1ABCDE
  2. 2IV access, bloods + VBG + ketones
  3. 3Fluid: 1 L 0.9% NaCl over 1 h (500 mL/15 min if SBP<90)
  4. 4Fixed-rate insulin 0.1 U/kg/h

Hyperglycaemia (>11 mmol/L) + ketonaemia (≥3) + acidosis (pH<7.3 or HCO₃<15).

A

Airway

  • Patent? Talking? Stridor?
  • Suction, jaw-thrust, adjuncts, definitive airway if needed
B

Breathing

  • RR, SpO₂, auscultate, percuss
  • O₂ to target sats, NIV / intubate as required
C

Circulation

  • HR, BP, cap refill, JVP
  • 2× large-bore IV, bloods, monitor, ECG
D

Disability

  • AVPU/GCS, pupils, glucose, temp
E

Exposure

  • Full exposure, skin, rash, bleeding, lines, infection source
View flowchart algorithm
WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds