Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis Research Articles

Variations in Management and Clinical Outcomes for Children With Diabetic Ketoacidosis in an Academic Pediatric Versus Community Emergency Department Setting.

Our objectives were to characterize variations from standardized, evidence-based guidelines in the management of pediatric patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) based on initial presentation to a tertiary pediatric emergency department (PED) versus a community emergency department (OSH) and compare clinical outcomes. We conducted a retrospective study on children 18 years and younger with DKA who presented to an OSH or PED over a 3-year period. Treatments monitored for variation included intravenous fluid management, insulin delivery, and sodium bicarbonate administrations. Clinical outcomes included time to anion gap correction and on insulin infusion, hypokalemia, hypoglycemia, rapid serum glucose decline, cerebral edema, mechanical ventilation, mortality, and time from initial presentation to hospital discharge. Children with DKA who presented to an OSH (n = 250) were more acidotic (pH 7.11 vs. 7.13, P = 0.001) and had larger anion gaps (28.8 vs. 25.5, P < 0.001) compared with children presenting to the PED (n = 237). The OSH patients were more likely to receive larger fluid boluses (>20 cc/kg or >1000 ml, 43% vs. 4%, P < 0.001), sodium bicarbonate (5% vs. 0%, P < 0.001), and intravenous bolus insulin (28% vs. 0%, P < 0.001). The OSH group were less likely to be started on maintenance intravenous fluids (70% vs. 99%, P < 0.001) or receive potassium in maintenance intravenous fluids (14% vs. 42%, P < 0.001). The OSH group had longer anion gap correction times (754 vs. 541 mins, P < 0.001), insulin infusion times (1018 vs. 854 min, P = 0.003), and times to hospital discharge (3358 vs. 3045 mins, P < 0.001). Incidence of hypokalemia, hypoglycemia, rapid glucose decline, cerebral edema, and deaths were similar between the 2 groups. Our study demonstrated significant variations in the initial management of pediatric DKA patients by OSH facilities that deviated from an evidence-based treatment pathway utilized by a PED. Statewide quality improvement initiatives could help improve the overall clinical care provided to pediatric DKA patients.

Effectiveness of a standardized scenario in teaching the management of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) to residents: a simulation cross-sectional study

BackgroundDiabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a frequent manifestation at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children, possibly associated with a wide range of complications, often as a consequence of wrong or delayed treatment. Due to its complex and risky management, direct exposure to real situations alone is not sufficient to achieve adequate skills in pediatric DKA for residents. Simulation could be a valuable aid, allowing to practice a standardized scenario of a complex real-world situation. We aimed to test the effectiveness of a standardized scenario of pediatric DKA in teaching its recognition and treatment.MethodsWe develop a standardized scenario able to guide step-by-step the learners through the flowchart of DKA management and considering alternative evolutions in the case of possible deviations from guidelines. It was a real-life simulation with the use of a high-fidelity pediatric simulator. It was played by 78 pediatrics 20 and emergency medicine residents. At the end of the simulation, a validated questionnaire was administered to collect feedback from participants regarding the impact of the simulation on learning. All materials to reproduce the DKA scenario are provided.ResultsOverall, the scenario was rated as realistic (mean score 4.37 ± 0.68, from 1 to 5) and relevant to professional training (4.72 ± 0.47), useful in increasing confidence in interpreting laboratory tests (3.97 ± 0.65), group organization and communication strategies (3.49 ± 0.94), and managing the treatment of DKA (3.46 ± 0.92).ConclusionsThe use of a standardized scenario of pediatric DKA may be a valid tool to reinforce theoretical knowledge in residents, both in pediatrics and in emergency medicine, and to directly and safely practice pediatric DKA management.

Accuracy of a Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitor in Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis Admissions.

Objective: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are integral in the outpatient care of people with type 1 diabetes, although they lack inpatient labeling. Food and Drug Administration began allowing inpatient use during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with some accuracy data now available, primarily from adult hospitals. Pediatric inpatient data remain limited, particularly during diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) admissions and for patients receiving intravenous (IV) insulin. Design and Methods: This retrospective chart review compared point-of-care glucose values to personal Dexcom G6 sensor data during pediatric hospitalizations. Accuracy was assessed using mean absolute relative difference (MARD), Clarke Error Grids, and the percentage of values within 15/20/30% if glucose value >100 mg/dL and 15/20/30 mg/dL if glucose value ≤100 mg/dL. Results: Matched paired glucose values (N = 612) from 36 patients (median age 14 years, 58.3% non-Hispanic White, 47.2% male) and 42 inpatient encounters were included in this subanalysis of DKA admissions. The MARDs for DKA and non-DKA admissions (N = 503) were 11.8% and 11.7%, with 97.6% and 98.6% of pairs falling within A and B zones of the Clarke Error Grid, respectively. Severe DKA admissions (pH <7.15 and/or bicarbonate <5 mmol/L) had a MARD of 8.9% compared to 14.3% for nonsevere DKA admissions. The MARD during administration of IV insulin (N = 266) was 13.4%. Conclusions: CGM accuracy is similar between DKA and non-DKA admissions and is maintained in severe DKA and during IV insulin administration, suggesting potential usability in pediatric hospitalizations. Further study on the feasibility of implementation of CGM in the hospital is needed.

Revised one-bag IV fluid protocol for pediatric DKA: a feasible approach and retrospective comparative study.

This study compared the effectiveness of the traditional and revised one-bag protocols for pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) management. This single-center retrospective cohort study included children diagnosed with DKA upon admission between 2012 and 2019. Our institution reevaluated and streamlined the traditional one-bag protocol (revised one-bag protocol). The revised one-bag protocol rehydrated all pediatric DKA patients with dextrose (5 g/100 ml) containing 0.45% NaCl at a rate of 3500 ml/m2 per 24 h after the first 1 h bolus of normal saline, regardless of age or degree of dehydration. This study examined acidosis recovery times and the frequency of healthcare provider interventions to maintain stable blood glucose levels. The revised one-bag protocol demonstrated a significantly shorter time to acidosis recovery than the traditional protocol (12.67 and 18.20 h, respectively; p < 0.001). The revised protocol group required fewer interventions for blood glucose control, with an average of 0.25 dextrose concentration change orders per patient, compared to 1.42 in the traditional protocol group (p < 0.001). Insulin rate adjustments were fewer in the revised protocol group, averaging 0.52 changes per patient, vs. 2.32 changes in the traditional protocol group (p < 0.001). The revised one-bag protocol for pediatric DKA is both practical and effective. This modified DKA management achieved acidosis recovery more quickly and reduced blood glucose fluctuations compared with the traditional one-bag protocol. Future studies, including randomized controlled trials, should assess the safety and effectiveness of the revised protocol in a broad range of pediatric patients with DKA.

A Narrative Review on Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Children.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication in children with diabetes mellitus. There are considerable differences in the management approaches for DKA between different countries. One of the main areas of differences between guidelines is the administration of fluid, with most guidelines adopting a restrictive approach. This is based on the concern over cerebral oedema, a lethal sequela allegedly to be caused by excessive fluid administration. However, in recent years, new clinical studies suggest that there is no causal relationship between intravenous fluid therapy and DKA-related cerebral injury. The British Society of Paediatric Endocrinology updated its guideline in 2020 to adopt a more permissive approach to fluid administration, which has sparked controversy among some paediatricians. The purpose of this article is to provide a narrative review on the management of DKA. A PubMed search was performed with clinical queries using the key term "diabetic ketoacidosis". The search strategy included randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, meta-analyses, observational studies, guidelines, and reviews. The search was restricted to English literature and the age range of 18 years and younger. Moreover, we reviewed and compared major guidelines. The management of DKA involves early recognition, accurate diagnosis, meticulous fluid and insulin treatment with close monitoring of blood glucose, ketones, electrolytes, renal function, and neurological status. There is still limited clinical evidence to support either a restrictive or permissive approach in the fluid management of paediatric DKA patients. Clinicians should exercise caution when applying different guidelines in their clinical practice, considering the specific circumstances of individual paediatric patients.

Low dose insulin infusion versus the standard dose in children with diabetic ketoacidosis: a meta-analysis

Aim: This systematic review aims to consolidate findings from current clinical trials that compare the effectiveness of insulin infusion at 0.05 IU/kg/h versus 0.1 IU/kg/h in managing pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis. Methods: We searched several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Central and Web of Science. Our primary outcomes were time to reach blood glucose ≤250 mg/dl and time to resolution of acidosis. Secondary outcomes included rate of blood glucose decrease per hour, incidence of hypoglycemia, hypokalemia, treatment failure, and cerebral edema. Results &amp; conclusion: The present study establishes that a low insulin dose exhibits comparable efficacy to the standard dosage for managing pediatric patients suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis, with a lower incidence of complications.

The Incidence of Cerebral Edema in Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Introduction: Cerebral edema is an uncommon but devastating consequence of diabetic ketoacidosis occurring more in children than adults. Younger children and those with newly diagnosed diabetes are at highest risk. The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of cerebral edema in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis at Children’s Hospital, Lahore in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus.&#x0D; Methods: This descriptive study was carried out in the pediatric intensive care units and medical wards of the Children’s Hospital and the institute of Child Health, Lahore from 2nd Feb 2016 to 2nd Aug 2016. A total of 150 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled. After taking consent from parents, demographic information including name, age, sex, address, and date of admission were recorded. Fundoscopic findings were recorded before initiating diabetic ketoacidosis treatment and neurological examination was conducted at presentation. Cerebral edema was labeled as per operational definition and sampling was done as per hospital DKA management protocol.&#x0D; Results: In our study, out of 150 cases, 58.67%(n=88) were between 1-7 years of age while 41.33%(n=62) were between 8-14 years of age, mean + sd was calculated as 6.92+3.12 years, 51.33%(n=77) were male and 48.67%(n=73) were females. Frequency of cerebral edema in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis at children’s hospital Lahore in the child with type 1 diabetes mellitus was calculated in 18.67%(n=28) while 81.33%(n=122) had no findings of cerebral edema.&#x0D; Conclusions: Frequency of cerebral edema is high in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis at Children’s Hospital Lahore in the child with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Ischemic-Hemorrhagic Stroke in New Onset Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus with Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Two-Year-Old Toddler: The First Reported Case in Indonesia

Cerebral edema accounts for 90% of intracerebral complications in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Stroke has been reported to account for 10% of intracerebral complications of DKA in children. It may be underrecognized because its presentation may be subtle. This case report aims to raise awareness of stroke presentation and risk factors in pediatric DKA. A previously healthy two-year-old female presented to the emergency department one day before admission with loss of consciousness and was diagnosed with DKA. The recognition of left hemiparesis was on the 9th day of hospitalization. After 14 days of hospitalization, the patient had recurrent seizures. Computed tomography and angiography revealed subacute ischemic transformative to subacute hemorrhagic stroke. During the follow-up, the symptoms of hemiparesis improved with routine physiotherapy, with some partial palsy of the third cranial nerve remaining. Risk factors for stroke in the patient were the severity of dehydration during DKA, younger age of onset, delayed DKA treatment, and iron deficiency anemia. Suspicion of stroke is necessary even if a subtle neurologic deficit occurs.

Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics of Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis Admissions to COVID-19 Free UAE Tertiary Center during Pandemic

Background: COVID-19 pandemic led to delayed diagnosis and increase in number and severity of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) cases in pediatric population worldwide. The indirect impact of the pandemic on pediatric DKA admissions to COVID-19-free hospitals worth to be evaluated. Objectives: Our aim was to evaluate the characteristics and severity of DKA admissions before and during the pandemic to COVID-19-free hospital. Methods: This descriptive retrospective study included 130 episodes of DKA for patients aged below 16 years admitted to Tawam Hospital, a COVID-19-free hospital, between March 2017 and Feb 2021. Data from March 2020 to Feb 2021 (pandemic) were compared to the previous 3 years, March 2017 to Feb 2020 (pre-pandemic). Data were retrieved from the electronic records and analyzed using STATA13. Results: We evaluated 130 DKA admissions (63 pandemic and 67 pre-pandemic). The majority of patients in the pandemic group were in, the age group of (6–11.9 years) (54% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.001), and higher proportion of them was diagnosed with new-onset diabetes (42.9% vs. 25.4%, p = 0.035). Overall, there was no significant difference in symptoms duration, DKA severity, or time to DKA resolution, but there was a difference in the median (IQR) HbA1C, 11% (9.4–12.95) vs. 10.15% (9.27–11.80) (p = 0.0297) in the pandemic and pre-pandemic groups, respectively. Conclusion: In our COVID-19-free hospital, the pandemic and service reallocation has led to an increased rate of DKA admissions with increased number of newly diagnosed T1DM. Clinical presentation and severity were not adversely affected.

The impact of pediatric intensivists on the management of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis in pediatric intensive care units

IntroductionThe impact of pediatric intensivists on managing pediatric patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pediatric intensivists on outcomes in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).MethodsThis was a two-institution retrospective study of patients with DKA admitted to the PICU between 2012 and 2023. Pediatric patients (< 19 years of age) were included if they met the moderate to severe DKA criteria on PICU admission. The patients were subsequently divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of a pediatric intensivist. The primary outcome was the PICU length of stay (LOS). Secondary outcomes were adverse events during DKA treatment, hospital LOS, and mortality.ResultsFifty-two patients admitted to the PICU with a median age of 13.00 years (range, 0–18 years) were included; 32 (61.54%) were female. Patients managed by pediatric intensivists had significantly shorter PICU LOS (2.52 vs. 3.69 days, p < 0.05). Also, adverse events during DKA treatment were significantly decreased in the high-intensity group compared to the low-intensity group (12.50% vs. 50.00%, p < 0.05).ConclusionsHigh-intensity ICU staffing was associated with shorter PICU LOS and lower adverse events in pediatric patients with DKA. Our results suggest that dedicated pediatric intensivists can improve outcomes of critically ill pediatric patients with DKA.

Paediatric new onset type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia

AimsDespite emerging evidence of increased paediatric diabetes mellitus (DM) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) worldwide following the COVID-19 pandemic, studies in Asia are lacking. We aimed to determine the frequency, demographics, and clinical characteristics of new onset type 1 DM (T1DM) during the pandemic in Malaysia. MethodsThis is a retrospective multicenter study involving new onset T1DM paediatric patients in Klang Valley, Malaysia during two time periods ie 18th September 2017-17th March 2020 (pre-pandemic) and 18th March 2020-17th September 2022 (pandemic). ResultsThere was a total of 180 patients with new onset T1DM during the 5-year study period (71 pre-pandemic, 109 pandemic). An increase in frequency of T1DM was observed during the pandemic (52 in 2021, 38 in 2020, 27 in 2019 and 30 in 2018). A significantly greater proportion of patients presented with DKA (79.8 % vs 64.8 %), especially severe DKA (46.8 % vs 28.2 %) during the pandemic. Serum glucose was significantly higher (28.2 mmol vs 25.9 mmol/L) with lower venous pH (7.10 vs 7.16), but HbA1c was unchanged. ConclusionsNew onset T1DM increased during the pandemic, with a greater proportion having severe DKA. Further studies are required to evaluate the mechanism leading to this rise to guide intervention measures.

The effect of dehydration, hyperchloremia and volume of fluid resuscitation on acute kidney injury in children admitted to hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a recognized comorbidity in pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), although the exact etiology is unclear. The unique physiology of DKA makes dehydration assessments challenging, and these patients potentially receive excessive amounts of intravenous fluids (IVF). We hypothesized that dehydration is over-estimated in pediatric DKA, leading to over-administration of IVF and hyperchloremia that worsens AKI. Retrospective cohort of all DKA inpatients at a tertiary pediatric hospital from 2014 to 2019. A total of 145 children were included; reasons for exclusion were pre-existing kidney disease or incomplete medical records. AKI was determined by change in creatinine during admission, and comparison to a calculated baseline value. Linear regression multivariable analysis was used to identify factors associated with AKI. True dehydration was calculated from patients' change in weight, as previously validated. Fluid over-resuscitation was defined as total fluids given above the true dehydration. A total of 19% of patients met KDIGO serum creatinine criteria for AKI on admission. Only 2% had AKI on hospital discharge. True dehydration and high serumurea levels were associated with high serumcreatinine levels on admission (p = 0.042; p < 0.001, respectively). Fluid over-resuscitation and hyperchloremia were associated with delayed kidney recovery (p < 0.001). Severity of initial AKI was associated with cerebral edema (p = 0.018). Dehydration was associated with initial AKI in children with DKA. Persistent AKI and delay to recovery was associated with hyperchloremia and over-resuscitation with IVF, potentially modifiable clinical variables for earlier AKI recovery and reduction in long-term morbidity. This highlights the need to re-address fluid protocols in pediatric DKA.

Pediatric Diabetes and Diabetic Ketoacidosis After COVID-19: Challenges Faced and Lessons Learnt.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic affected the management and follow-up of several chronic ailments, including pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Restricted access to healthcare and fear of contracting the virus during medical facility visits resulted in poor compliance, irregular follow-up visits, treatment, and delayed diagnosis of complications in pediatric diabetes such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). As such, the incidence of complicated DKA in resource-limited settings is high due to delayed presentation, poor compliance with therapy, and associated comorbidities such as malnutrition and sepsis. The pandemic had only added to the woes. The increased surge in DKA, in the face of limited resources, prompted clinicians to find alternative solutions to manage these children effectively. In this narrative review, we discuss the key challenges faced globally while caring for children with T1DM and DKA during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons learned thereof.

Knowledge and Confidence of Omani Pediatric Residents in Managing Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract Introduction Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Unfortunately, medical errors are not uncommon during the management of DKA leading to significant morbidity and mortality. There are many studies conducted to assess the knowledge of junior doctors in the management of DKA in many countries including Bahrain and Iraq. Objectives This study aims to assess the knowledge and confidence of Omani pediatric residents in the management of DKA and compare the findings with the results of previous studies from the region. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among all enrolled pediatric residents in the Oman Medical Specialties Board in 2021, using an online survey that consists of three parts with a total of 30 questions to gain information about demographics, knowledge, and overall confidence in the management of DKA in children. The questionnaire was adopted from the Bahraini and Iraqi studies. Results In total, 69 pediatric residents (15M:54F) out of 84 had responded to the survey, giving a response rate of 82%. More than half of the responders were junior residents R1 and R2 (59.3%). The overall performance score of knowledge among the residents mainly ranged between 50 and 75%. However, R2 resident performance was better as their score ranged between 80 and 85%. Only 5.7% of our residents had a performance score above 90%. The overall confidence of residents in managing patients with DKA was directly proportional to their year of residency, ranging from not confident to very confident, demonstrating that most residents from R1 to R3 rated themselves as “fair” compared with 58.3% of 4th-year residents who rated themselves as confident. In comparison to similar studies in Bahrain and Iraq, our junior residents showed better knowledge in some aspects, for example, identifying the correct biochemical criteria to diagnose DKA, 88.7 vs. 65% from Bahrain and 20.7% from Iraq. Conclusion The overall knowledge and confidence of the Omani pediatric residents were satisfying. However, there are still some gaps in knowledge to be bridged about the management of pediatric DKA. Continuous educational activities are desired. Therefore, more sessions about DKA management are to be scheduled, perhaps applying some simulation training to boost their knowledge and confidence.

1118-P: Accuracy of Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitor in Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis Admissions

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are an integral part of care for youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) though lack FDA labeling for inpatient use. While some adult data on CGM use in inpatient settings is available, pediatric data are minimal. This retrospective chart review evaluated the accuracy of Dexcom G6 CGM versus point of care (POC, Nova Biomedical StatStrip [MARD 6%])) blood glucose values from pediatric inpatient encounters. Blood glucose data, diagnosis codes, and initial labs were collected from the medical record. CGM values were obtained from Dexcom Clarity CSV files. Paired glucose values (N=1191) from 83 patients with T1D (median age 12 yrs, 54% male, 69% non-Hispanic White) were used to calculate mean absolute relative difference (MARD) and Clarke Error Grid. Data from DKA admissions (N=665) had a MARD of 11.1% with 97.8% of values within A&amp;B zones, compared to 11.4% and 98.5% for non-DKA admissions (N=526). Values from severe DKA admissions (N= 307) (pH &amp;lt;7.15 and/or bicarbonate &amp;lt;5 mmol/L) had a lower MARD compared to non-severe admissions (N=358) (8.4% vs 13.4%, p=0.01). In summary, CGM accuracy is comparable between DKA and non-DKA admissions. The accuracy of CGMs, even in severe DKA, suggests potential usability during pediatric hospital encounters. Further analysis will differentiate POC versus lab glucose and the effect of medications, including IV insulin infusions. Disclosure L.A.Waterman: None. L.Pyle: None. L.Towers: None. E.Jost: Other Relationship; Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. A.J.Karami: None. C.Berget: Consultant; Insulet Corporation, Dexcom, Inc., Other Relationship; Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. G.P.Forlenza: Advisory Panel; Medtronic, Consultant; Dexcom, Inc., Insulet Corporation, Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc., Lilly Diabetes, Research Support; Medtronic, Abbott, Dexcom, Inc., Insulet Corporation, Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. R.Wadwa: Consultant; Eli Lilly and Company, Other Relationship; Dexcom, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Research Support; Dexcom, Inc., Eli Lilly and Company, Beta Bionics, Inc., Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. E.C.Cobry: None. Funding National Institutes of Health (5T32DK063687)

The role of anion gap normalization time in the management of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis.

Our aims were to determine whether anion gap normalization time (AGNT) correlates with risk factors related to the severity of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children, and to characterize AGNT as a criterion for DKA resolution in children admitted with moderate or severe disease. A ten-year retrospective cohort study of children admitted to the intensive care unit with DKA. We used a survival analysis approach to determine changes in serum glucose, bicarbonate, pH, and anion gap following admission. Using multivariate analysis, we examined associations between patients' demographic and laboratory characteristics with delayed normalization of the anion gap. A total of 95 patients were analyzed. The median AGNT was 8 h. Delayed AGNT (>8 h) correlated with pH < 7.1 and serum glucose >500 mg/dL. In multivariate analysis, glucose >500 mg/dL was associated with an increased risk for delayed AGNT, by 3.41 fold. Each 25 mg/dL elevation in glucose was associated with a 10% increment in risk for delayed AGNT. Median AGNT preceded median PICU discharge by 15 h (8 vs. 23 h). AGNT represents a return to normal glucose-based physiology and an improvement in dehydration. The correlation observed between delayed AGNT and markers of DKA severity supports the usefulness of AGNT for assessing DKA recovery.

The Impact of a Multifaceted Simulation Education and Feedback Program for Community Emergency Departments on Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis Management.

We sought to determine if general emergency departments (GEDs) were managing pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) correctly and if management could be improved using a multilayered educational initiative. We hypothesized that a multifaceted program of in situ simulation education and formal feedback on actual patient management would improve community GED management of pediatric DKA. This study combined a prospective simulation-based performance evaluation and a retrospective chart review. A community outreach simulation education initiative was developed followed by a formal patient feedback process. Fifteen hospitals participated in simulation sessions and the feedback process. All hospitals were scored for readiness to provide care for critically ill pediatric patients using the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Pediatric Readiness Assessment. Six of the 15 have had a second hospital visit that included a DKA scenario with an average performance score of 60.3%. A total of 158 pediatric patients with DKA were included in the chart review. The GEDs with higher patient volumes provided best practice DKA management more often (63%) than those with lower patient volumes (40%). Participating in a DKA simulated scenario showed a trend toward improved care, with 47.2% before participation and 68.2% after participation ( P = 0.091). Participating in the formal feedback process improved best practice management provided to 68.6%. Best practice management was further improved to 70.3% if the GED participated in both a DKA simulation and the feedback process ( P = 0.04). A multifaceted program of in situ simulation education and formal feedback on patient management can improve community GED management of pediatric patients with DKA.

Current recommendations for management of paediatric diabetic ketoacidosis.

Treatment of paediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) includes careful attention to fluids and electrolytes to minimize the risk of complications such as cerebral injury (CI), which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The incidence of cerebral edema in paediatric DKA has not decreased despite the use of fluid-limiting protocols based on restricting early fluid resuscitation. New evidence suggests that early isotonic fluid therapy does not confer additional risk and may improve outcomes in some patients. Protocols and clinical practice guidelines are being adjusted, with a particular focus on recommendations for initial and ongoing fluids and electrolyte monitoring and replacement. Initial isotonic fluid resuscitation is now recommended for all patients in the first 20 to 30 minutes after presentation, followed by repletion of volume deficit over 36 hours in association with an insulin infusion, electrolyte supplementation, and careful monitoring for and management of potential CI.

Evaluation of Early Insulin Glargine Administration in the Treatment of Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

In the management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the standard of care is to administer insulin glargine after ketoacidosis has resolved and the patient is transitioning from intravenous (IV) insulin to subcutaneous insulin; however, there is evidence to suggest that earlier administration of insulin glargine may accelerate resolution of ketoacidosis. The objective of this research is to determine the efficacy of early subcutaneous insulin glargine on time to resolution of ketoacidosis in children with moderate to severe DKA. This retrospective chart review evaluated children age 2 to 21 years old admitted for moderate to severe DKA who received insulin glargine within 6 hours of hospital admission (early insulin glargine) compared with those who received insulin glargine greater than 6 hours from admission (late insulin glargine). The primary outcome was duration of time the patient received IV insulin. A total of 190 patients were included. The median time on IV insulin was lower in patients who received early insulin glargine compared with those who received late insulin glargine (17.0 [IQR, 14-22.8] vs 22.9 hours [IQR, 4.3-29.3]; p = 0.0006). Resolution of DKA was faster in patients who received early insulin glargine compared with those who received late insulin glargine (median, 13.0 [IQR, 9.8-16.8] vs 18.2 hours [IQR, 12.5-27.6]; p = 0.005). Length of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and hospital stay and incidences of hypoglycemia and hypokalemia were similar between the 2 groups. Children with moderate to severe DKA who received early insulin glargine had a significantly lower time on IV insulin, as well as significantly faster time to resolution of DKA when compared with those who received late insulin glargine. There were no significant differences observed in hospital stay and rates of hypoglycemia and hypokalemia.

Increased Use of Hyperosmolar Therapy for Suspected Clinically Apparent Brain Injury in Pediatric Patients with Diabetic Ketoacidosis during the Peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The incidence of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) increased during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to investigate whether rates of hyperosmolar therapy administration for suspected clinically apparent brain injury (CABI) complicating DKA also increased during this period as compared to the three years immediately preceding the pandemic and to compare the characteristics of patients with suspected CABI before the pandemic, patients with suspected CABI during the peak of the pandemic, and those with DKA but without suspected CABI during the pandemic. Patients aged ≤18 years presenting with DKA before (March 11, 2017-March 10, 2020) and during the peak of the pandemic (March 11, 2020-March 10, 2021) were identified through a rigorous search of two databases. Predefined criteria were used to diagnose suspected CABI. Biochemical, clinical, and sociodemographic data were collected from a comprehensive review of the electronic medical record. The proportion of patients with DKA who received hyperosmolar therapy was significantly higher (P = 0.014) during the pandemic compared to the prepandemic period; however, this was only significant among patients with newly diagnosed diabetes. Both groups with suspected CABI had more severe acidosis, lower Glasgow Coma Scale scores, and longer hospital admissions (P< 0.001 for all) than cases without suspected CABI. During the pandemic, the blood urea nitrogen concentration was significantly higher in patients with suspected CABI than those without suspected CABI, suggesting they were more severely dehydrated. The clinical, biochemical, and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with suspected CABI were indistinguishable before and during the pandemic. In conclusion, administration of hyperosmolar therapy for suspected CABI was more common during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly a result of delayed presentation, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early recognition of the signs and symptoms of diabetes and DKA, especially during future surges of highly transmissible infections.