Abstract
Objectives: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening metabolic disorder in which its complications can be avoidable. The purpose of this study is to identify and measure the level of knowledge and awareness of caregivers about the symptoms of DKA in children in Riyadh city. Setting and Participants: This cross-sectional study design was conducted in Riyadh city in Saudi Arabia. A sample size of at least 412 was required. The total number of respondents that were included in the analysis was 414. The method of collection of data done by data collectors. Results: Two hundred and sixty-eight (64.7%) of the participants reported that they know about DKA, yet it was still a concerning figure since 35.3% did not know about it, which necessitating diabetes self-management education at national levels in Saudi Arabia. Conclusion: This study showed that the majority of type-1 diabetic caregivers had knowledge and awareness regarding DKA in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Further studies would assess more factors to enhance the level of knowledge and awareness, and increase the effectiveness toward the right action and response regarding DKA.
Highlights
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute, serious, life-threatening complication of hyperglycemia, ketoacidosis, and ketonuria
Two hundred and sixty-eight (64.7%) of the participants reported that they know about DKA, yet it was still a concerning figure since 35.3% did not know about it, which necessitating diabetes self-management education at national levels in Saudi Arabia
This study showed that the majority of type-1 diabetic caregivers had knowledge and awareness regarding DKA in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Summary
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute, serious, life-threatening complication of hyperglycemia, ketoacidosis, and ketonuria. It occurs when absolute or relative insulin deficiency prevents the ability of glucose to enter cells for using it as a metabolic fuel. The liver rapidly breaks down fat into ketones for use as a fuel source. The insidious rise in polydipsia and polyuria are the most prominent early symptoms of DKA. Other symptoms such as Malaise, generalized weakness, fatiguability, nausea and vomiting, diffuse abdominal pain and decreased appetite are seen [1]
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