Reviewed and updated by Lisa Bonsall, MSN, RN, CRNP, CCRN: July 1, 2024

Changes in laboratory values often give us clues to what is happening with our patients. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is severe, uncontrolled diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, ketoacidosis, and ketonuria. Here’s a handy table of laboratory values  associated with DKA.

Use this equation to calculate an anion gap: Anion gap = Na⁺(mEq/L) – [Cl^-(mEq/L) + HCO₃^-(mEq/L)] 

You have an important role when caring for a patient with DKA.  Thorough physical assessments, careful monitoring of laboratory values, and critical thinking are essential to avoid complications of this complex disorder. Have you cared for a patient with DKA? What are the common presenting signs and symptoms?
 

Reference:

Hirsh, I.B. & Emmett, M (2022, July 27). Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in adults: Clinical features, evaluation, and diagnosis. UpToDate. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/diabetic-ketoacidosis-and-hyperosmolar-hyperglycemic-state-in-adults-clinical-features-evaluation-and-diagnosis

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Managing Acute Diabetic Complications	Diabetes	How to Calculate Anion Gap and Identify Anion Gap Acidosis