[ANSWER]CNA773 Assessment Task 2: Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis – Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management – A Case Study

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Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Patients with DKA do not have enough insulin to process glucose, resulting in accumulation of the glucose in the blood. Owing to insulin deficiency, the body resorts to breaking down fatty acids into energy, a process that leads to the build-up of ketones in the body (Balmier et al. 2019). Consequently, excessive quantities of ketones in the body cause the blood to be acidic, bringing about what is known as DKA.

Hyperglycaemia also induces osmotic diuresis, which in the absence of adequate fluid intake causes dehydration, decreased electrolyte levels, hyperosmolarity, and a reduction in the glomerular filtration rate (Gosmanov, Gosmanova & Dillard-Cannon 2014). The reduction of electrolytes in the body is problematic as it negatively affects cardiac, respiratory and neurological functioning (Katislambros et al. 2011). As renal function deteriorates, glycosuria and hyperglycaemia worsen (Lavoie 2015). [Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis]

Additionally, as a result of low insulin levels and hyperosmolarity, the skeletal muscle’s ability to take up potassium is impaired, resulting in potassium depletion within cells (Cashen & Petersen 2019). These pathophysiological processes explain the clinical manifestations of DKA.   DKA commonly manifests in frequent urination (polyuria), abnormal thirst (polydipsia), high levels of sugar in the blood (hyperglycaemia), and a high content of ketones in the blood and urine (AIHW 2016). DKA is also characterised by a breath with a fruity smell, rapid breathing, nausea and vomiting, fatigue,…[Buy Full Answer for Just USD 9: 2398 WORDS][Severe Diabetic Ketoacidosis]

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