Decoding Diabetes Complications: Risks, DKA, and Treatment Strategies

by | Friday, June 30, 2023

Introduction:

Hey Friends 👋🏼

As a Nurse, it’s crucial to understand the potential complications that can arise from diabetes and how to manage them effectively. This knowledge is vital for nurses, as we play a vital role in patient education and managing these complications (Diabetes Australia, 2020).

While diabetes can be managed with proper care, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to various complications, including the life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

In this blog post, we will delve into the risks associated with diabetes, explore DKA as a serious complication, and discuss the available treatment options.

This blog post is a continuation of our series on diabetes. You can read the previous post, “Understanding Diabetes: A Quick Nurses Guide to Diabetes in Australia,” HERE.

Understanding The Risks: Why People With Diabetes Are Vulnerable

Diabetes can increase the risk of various health complications due to the impact of consistently high blood sugar levels on the body (Diabetes Australia, 2020).

These complications can affect multiple organ systems, including the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020).

Some of the major risk factors include:

  1. Poorly controlled blood sugar levels: Consistently high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to various complications (Diabetes Australia, 2020).
  2. High blood pressure: This can further exacerbate the damage caused by diabetes on blood vessels and organs (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020).
  3. High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020).
  4. Smoking: Smoking can worsen the effects of diabetes on the blood vessels, increasing the risk of complications (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020).

A Closer Look At Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a severe complication of diabetes that occurs when blood sugar levels are consistently high (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

While it is more common in people with type 1 diabetes, it can also occur in those with type 2 diabetes.

DKA is a medical emergency that can lead to coma or even death if left untreated (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

When the body cannot use glucose for energy due to a lack of insulin, it starts to break down fat for fuel.

This process produces ketones, acidic byproducts that can build up in the blood, leading to ketoacidosis (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

Symptoms of DKA include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, and confusion (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

Treatment Strategies For DKA:

  1. Hospitalisation: DKA is a medical emergency that typically requires hospitalisation for close monitoring and treatment (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
  2. Insulin administration: Insulin is administered to lower blood sugar levels and suppress the production of ketones (American Diabetes Association, 2021).
  3. Fluid replacement: Intravenous fluids are given to replenish fluids lost through frequent urination and to help dilute the excess sugar in the blood (American Diabetes Association, 2021).
  4. Electrolyte replacement: Electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, and chloride, are essential for proper nerve and muscle function. They may be administered intravenously to correct imbalances caused by DKA (American Diabetes Association, 2021).
  5. Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of blood sugar and ketone levels is crucial for adjusting treatment as needed (American Diabetes Association, 2021).

Conclusion:

As a nurse, understanding the risks and complications associated with diabetes, such as DKA, is essential for providing comprehensive patient care (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2020). By being aware of the warning signs and the necessary treatment strategies, you can help patients manage their diabetes effectively and prevent the onset of life-threatening complications (Diabetes Australia, 2020).

Ongoing education on diabetes and its complications is vital for staying informed and providing optimal care to your patients (Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, 2020).

I encourage you to continue learning about diabetes and its complications and to apply this knowledge in your practice.

Stay tuned for our upcoming blog posts in this series, where we will delve deeper into managing diabetes and its complications.

References:

American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2021. Diabetes Care, 44(Supplement 1), S1-S232. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-Sint

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2020). Diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/diabetes/diabetes

Diabetes Australia. (2020). Diabetes complications. Retrieved from https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/diabetes-complications/

Mayo Clinic. (2021). Diabetic ketoacidosis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-ketoacidosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371551

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2020). General practice management of type 2 diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/management-of-type-2-diabetes

Journey into the World of Perianaesthesia Nursing: An Introduction

by | Sunday, May 28, 2023

👋🏼 Hey Friends, fellow nurses and aspiring healthcare heroes!

Welcome aboard this enlightening journey as we unravel the fascinating universe of perianaesthesia nursing in our brand new blog series.

Perianaesthesia nursing, what’s that? I hear you ask. Or perhaps, what does a perianaesthesia nurse do? I’m thrilled to guide you through this captivating specialty that is close to my heart, and give you a glimpse behind the imposing doors and the red line – a world often unexplored by many students.

It’s a joy to witness the awe and excitement in the eyes of students and novice nurses as they step into the operation theatre – a unique realm that adds a whole new dimension to their nursing journey.

So, buckle up and join me in this series as we delve into the exhilarating, fun-filled world of perianaesthesia nursing.

👀 Overview of Perianaesthesia Nursing

Perianaesthesia nursing is an intricate ballet of healthcare, where nurses orchestrate a comprehensive care routine for patients undergoing surgery or procedures requiring anaesthesia. This specialty is a blend of clinical acumen and technical prowess. A perianaesthesia nurse’s role encompasses preoperative patient assessment, intraoperative monitoring, postoperative recovery management, and patient and family education. In essence, perianaesthesia nurses are the unsung heroes, ensuring that patients navigate their anaesthetic and surgical journey safely and smoothly.

🤔 The Cornerstone of Patient Care

The significance of perianaesthesia nurses in patient care is immeasurable. They are the pillar supporting the patient’s anaesthetic and surgical journey. Their role extends from preoperative assessments and preparation for medical care, to intraoperative monitoring, to postoperative recovery management. They not only ensure a safe and smooth anaesthetic and surgical experience but also contribute profoundly to the overall patient care continuum.

🫣 Sneak Peek into What Lies Ahead

This blog series is your passport to a comprehensive understanding of perianaesthesia nursing. As a seasoned clinician, I frequently field questions about my clinical expertise, especially as I navigate various clinical areas, including the emergency department, and serve in different educational roles. My aim is to share the insights I’ve gathered and explore common queries.

In the coming weeks, we’ll demystify what we do as anaesthesia nurses, give you a day-in-the-life snapshot, and walk you through the journey of becoming a perianaesthesia nurse. We’ll also learn about professional groups and so much more!

Prepare for a fun-filled, enriching ride!

Feel free to post your queries in the comments section below.

👨‍⚕️ My Journey into Perianaesthesia Nursing

Now, let me share a snippet of my journey into this fascinating field and why I fell in love with it.

Drawn by the blend of technical skills, critical thinking, team dynamics, patient-centred care, education, and compassion, I found myself stepping into the world of perianaesthesia nursing. Each day brings fresh challenges and learning opportunities, and the resilience and strength of our patients are a constant source of inspiration.

My journey began as a beach lifeguard, and I completed my nursing studies with aspirations of becoming a doctor or a paramedic. However, a couple of family friends mentioned perianaesthesia nursing, piquing my curiosity. I delved into it, and voila!

This specialty perfectly aligns with my clinical interests and supports my holistic well-being.

My passion for this field has only intensified over the years, and I am thrilled to share my experiences with you all through this series.

Looking Ahead

Next week, we’ll look more into peri anaesthesia nursing.

So stay tuned, and get ready to explore the world of peri anaesthesia nursing with me!

Remember, nursing is a journey of lifelong learning.

Keep exploring, asking questions, and pushing yourself to be the best nurse you can be.

See you in the next post!

Understanding Diabetes: A Quick Nurses Guide to Diabetes in Australia, Type 1 and Type 2 Differences and Management Strategies

by | Saturday, April 8, 2023

Nurses encounter diabetes frequently in their clinical and non-clinical nursing. Still, patients don’t always fully understand the condition, and nurses need different levels of diabetes knowledge depending on whether they work in a clinical or non-clinical area. As a nurse, you are crucial to managing and educating patients about their health conditions. In this blog, we will explore the basics of diabetes, including the differences between type 1 and type 2, and highlight how important our role is as a nurse caring for patients with diabetes here in Australia.

Diabetes in Australia – The Statistics

  • Men are more likely to have diabetes than women.
  • 1 in 5 or 20% of Australians over age 80 have diabetes.
  • Type 2 diabetes accounts for 85-90% of all diabetes cases, with type one accounting for up to 10%.
  • In more than 60% of cases, type 2 diabetes can be prevented with education and lifestyle modifications such as diet improvement, regular exercise, and sleep hygiene.

(Australian Institute of Health and Welfare., 2023)

Understanding Diabetes: The Basics

Diabetes is a long-term metabolic disorder that makes it hard for the body to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose gives our cells and organs the energy they need to work, and it is controlled mainly by the hormone insulin, made by the pancreas. In people with diabetes, there is either a lack of insulin production or the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Types of Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2

Type 1 Diabetes: An Autoimmune Battle

Type 1 diabetes, also called “juvenile” diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, happens when the body’s immune system attacks and kills the beta cells in the pancreas that make insulin by accident. This autoimmune response results in little or no insulin production, causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults but can occur at any age. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role (Ohiagu, Franklyn O et al., 2021).

Management of Type 1 Diabetes:

Since individuals with type 1 diabetes cannot produce their insulin, they require daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to regulate their blood sugar levels. A healthy diet and regular exercise are essential to managing type 1 diabetes. Today, sensor monitors with Bluetooth can connect to phones and wristwatches to make daily monitoring easy and continuous (Partridge et al., 2016).

The most common type of diabetes is type 2 when the body stops responding to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it. It is often linked to a bad diet, insufficient exercise, and being overweight. Even though it’s more often diagnosed in adults, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and teens as obesity rates rise (Pandey et al., 2015).

Management of Type 2 Diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes is often treatable by changing your lifestyle, such as eating healthier, being more active, and losing weight if needed. Oral medications may also be prescribed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin injections may be needed if oral medications and lifestyle changes are insufficient to keep blood sugar levels in check. With either approach, many medications are available today for patients to manage their diabetes. Nurses must be familiar with these and contextualise them for their clinical area (Pandey et al., 2015).

Conclusion:

As a nurse, your role in diabetes care and education is invaluable. By understanding the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and their management strategies, you can provide better support and guidance to your patients, helping them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Remember that continuing to learn is vital to stay informed and giving the best care to people with diabetes.

Instagram Post

I created and shared a post on Instagram about diabetes almost two years ago.

CLICK HERE.

Next Up

Over the next couple of weeks, there will be additional blogs on diabetes. These will continue to explore diabetes management, including the different medications and the possible complications and implications of fasting for surgery.

Join along and Subscribe to the Monthly Dose Newsletter.

References

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2023). Diabetes: Australian facts, Summary – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/diabetes/diabetes/contents/summary

Ohiagu, Franklyn O, Chikezie, Paul C, & Chikezie, C. M. (2021). Pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus complications: Metabolic events and control. Biomedical Research and Therapy, 8(3), 4243-4257. https://doi.org/10.15419/bmrat.v8i3.663

Pandey, A., Chawla, S., & Guchhait, P. (2015). Type-2 diabetes: Current understanding and future perspectives. IUBMB Life, 67(7), 506-513. https://doi.org/10.1002/iub.1396

Partridge, H., Perkins, B., Mathieu, S., Nicholls, A., & Adeniji, K. (2016). Clinical recommendations in the management of the patient with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump therapy in the perioperative period: a primer for the anaesthetist. BJA: British Journal of Anaesthesia, 116(1), 18-26. https://doi.org/10.1093/bja/aev347

Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone: A Path to Personal Growth

by | Sunday, April 2, 2023

Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone: A Path to Personal Growth

This blog is the “monthly thought”. A section in the Monthly Dose Newsletter.

You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

As nurses, it’s easy to fall into a routine and stick to what we know. However, growth occurs when we step outside our comfort zone. When we challenge ourselves and take risks, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and experiences that can help us become better healthcare providers.

Stepping outside our comfort zone can be daunting, but the rewards are often well worth the effort. Not only does it broaden our horizons, but it also helps us build resilience and confidence. We learn to embrace change and adapt to new situations, which is an essential personal and professional skill.

So, the next time you feel stagnant or uninspired, consider taking a leap of faith and trying something new. Whether learning a new skill, attending a conference or workshop, or even just introducing yourself to a new colleague, the possibilities are endless when we step outside our comfort zone.

Remember, growth occurs when we challenge ourselves. By taking risks and embracing new opportunities, we can continue improving our practice and providing better patient care.

Redefining Nursing Education: Embracing a Holistic Approach for a Successful Career

by | Thursday, March 30, 2023

The Myth: Nursing School Teaches You Everything

🤔 No, it won’t.

Many believe that university or TAFE-based nursing programs provide all the necessary knowledge and skills for a successful nursing career. This commonly held belief stems from the assumption that formal education is the key to success in any profession. However, this belief has led to underprepared nurses entering the workforce.

Shortcomings in Traditional Nursing Education:

  1. Limited clinical practice in controlled environments
  2. Lack of exposure to different nursing specialties
  3. Insufficient focus on soft skills like communication and empathy

The Flawed Belief in the Traditional Nursing Education Model

Traditional nursing education often falls short because it doesn’t prepare students for the realities of the profession. Real-world experience and adaptability are crucial, yet many programs lack these elements.

Embracing a Holistic Approach: The New Perspective

To shift their mindset from “old” to “new,” nursing students should actively seek hands-on experiences. By engaging in undergraduate, volunteer, or part-time work in healthcare settings, students can gain practical experience and enhance their skills as well as gain confidence.

The Benefits of a Holistic Approach

Compound the experience you gain with additional benefits seeking your own learning goals. By adopting a more comprehensive approach, nursing students can expect improved clinical skills, better communication, and critical thinking abilities. This will better equip them for the challenges and complexities of the nursing profession, leading to a more fulfilling career.

The “Old” Way Is Fading

The “old” way of relying on traditional nursing education is on its way out, as the need for adaptable and well-rounded nurses becomes apparent. A more comprehensive approach, integrating theory, practice, and soft skills, is the future of nursing education, ensuring that students are prepared for the ever-changing healthcare landscape and contribute to improving patient care.

Atomic Essay Titled Redefining Nursing Education: Embracing a Holistic Approach for a Successful Career
Redefining Nursing Education: Embracing a Holistic Approach for a Successful Career

“Take risks: if you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise.”

Author Unknown
Read more

5 Tips for New Graduate Nurses Getting Started With Their Career

by | Monday, February 27, 2023

Starting a new job as a graduate nurse can be an intimidating experience, but with the right advice, support, and tips mentioned in this post, you can make the most of your new career.

Table of Contents

  1. Here are five tips to help you navigate the challenges of being a new graduate nurse:
  2. 🙋🏼‍♂️ Ask Questions and Seek Help
    1. ⏰ Time Management
      1. 👥 Build Relationships with Your Colleagues
        1. 🍀 Maintain a Growth Mindset
          1. 🥸 Focus on Patient-Centred Care

            Here are five tips to help you navigate the challenges of being a new graduate nurse:

            🙋🏼‍♂️ Ask Questions and Seek Help

            Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out for assistance when needed. Everyone was once a new graduate nurse, and it can be comforting to know that you are not alone in this journey. Your colleagues, supervisors, and mentors can provide valuable insight and support to help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of your resources.

            Extra Tip: Have a system for your continued learning and growth. Clinical and non-clinical.

            ⏰ Time Management

            Being mindful of your time and prioritising your tasks is an essential part of being a successful new graduate nurse. Make sure to take regular breaks and pace yourself to avoid burnout. Prioritising your work, taking breaks, and developing good time management habits will help you stay on top of your workload.

            Extra Tip: This is unique to you! Developing nursing skills is an ongoing and dynamic process. Check out the podcast I recorded with the Two Humerus Nurses, where time management was the theme of the recording. I share the same resource I used as a student with my students and graduates, and they find it helps them to reduce distractions and focus on categorising their patients’ care. Download Your Copy.

            👥 Build Relationships with Your Colleagues

            Building positive and supportive working relationships with your colleagues will make your work environment more enjoyable and help you learn from each other. It is important to build relationships with your peers and supervisors in order to get the most out of your job.

            Extra Tip: Start this in your first year of nursing! If you are serious about nursing, then commit to it and network with others. You have a lot of chances to make connections and build a network for your future at university and on placements. In the third year and beyond, attend conferences at least annually in your field and interest area. You are here now in your graduate year, continue to build on the relationships you have and develop new ones along your path.

            🍀 Maintain a Growth Mindset

            Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and continuous learning. Stay open-minded and willing to try new things. Don’t be afraid to take risks and challenge yourself.

            Extra Tip: You will always be learning something new. Be inquisitive and enjoy the fun of learning with others while performing your job. It’s ok if you do not like something, especially if you have given it a try and enjoyed the journey. It’s all about experience first, then identifying second, and finally choosing what aligns with you.

            🥸 Focus on Patient-Centred Care

            Always put the patient first.

            Focus on giving your patients good care with compassion and building good relationships with them and their families. As a newly graduated nurse, it’s important to give your patients good care and get to know them well.

            Extra Tip: Concentrate on this and work from there. This will help you with the environment as the stresses, people, and workload change to focus on what is truly a priority and of concern to your patient and yourself.

            These tips can help you become a successful and well-rounded new graduate nurse.

            With a bit of hard work and dedication, you can make the most of your new career.

            Head out and have a great time!

            Remember to savour the experience!

            You’ve earned it!

            Take a moment to dive into your progress, learning, and growth.

            Reach out if you need anything 😃