GuidelinesPrimary Care STG
Diabetic Emergencies
Diabetic Emergencies
DESCRIPTION
Diabetics may present with a decreased level of consciousness owing to:
- Hyperglycaemia diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS), or
- Hypoglycaemia
DIAGNOSIS
- Check blood glucose concentration and test urine for ketones, immediately
|
Hyperglycaemia |
Hypoglycaemia |
||
|
DKA |
HHS |
||
| Blood glucose |
≥11.1 mmol/L |
Usually >40 mmol/L |
<4 mmol/L |
| Urine test for ketones |
Usually positive and >1+ |
Usually negative |
Usually negative |
- If a diagnosis cannot be made, treat as hypoglycaemia and refer urgently
- Low blood glucose presents the most immediate danger to life
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Primary Healthcare Level, 2024 Edition