Stabilization of the Dka Patient Emergency & Critical Care

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a one of the most common causes of severe metabolic illness that results in prolonged hospitalization of dogs and cats. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate therapy are essential for a good outcome for these patients. DKA cases can be some of the most rewarding critical care patients to treat, as the prognosis is often good as long as the complicating disease processes are not too severe. This lecture will cover the pathophysiology of DKA, fluid and insulin therapy, as well as the acid/base and electrolyte abnormalities seen in DKA patients, and how to treat these derangements.