Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that most often presents in childhood and adolescence but can occur at any age. The condition is characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency. A frequent and dangerous presenting feature of new-onset T1D is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric and adult patients with T1D, and prevention hinges on early recognition and treatment. This pathway offers a standardized approach to the diagnosis and management of DKA to improve patient safety and outcomes. 

The DKA Pathway:

• Aligns with international guidelines for treatment of DKA
• Provides recommendations for fluids, electrolyte repletion, and IV insulin dosing
• Provides a separate algorithm for the transition to subcutaneous insulin when DKA is resolved
• Provides a separate algorithm for treating ketosis without DKA in patients with known type 1 diabetes
• Includes decision making assistance, medication tables, and order sets

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) clinical pathways

• Diabetic Ketoacidiosis (DKA) 

About our Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) clinical pathway

The Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) clinical pathway offers best practice recommendations for patients with DKA. They were created by our multidisciplinary team of content experts (including endocrinology, emergency, hospital, and critical care medicine as well as our pharmacists and nurses). This pathway guides the use of fluids, insulin, electrolyte replacement, and monitoring, ensuring that all patients receive the standard of care while minimizing complications.

The goal of the Agile MD format for these clinical pathways is to optimize evidence-based care for patients while improving workflow and enhancing the care team dynamic.