10 | Pediatric Diabetic Ketoacidosis with Dr. Whitney Buss

In this episode of PEM Chatt, Toni talks with Dr. Whitney Buss about Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in children. Dr. Buss, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor and type 1 diabetic herself, shares her personal experience with DKA and her expert advice on how to recognize, diagnose, and treat DKA. They discuss how DKA can show up in both kids with newly diagnosed diabetes and those already living with the condition. Dr. Buss highlights the importance of paying attention to early warning signs, especially in young kids, where symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss.

The conversation also covers how to safely manage DKA, including when to give fluids, how to use insulin carefully, and how to watch for serious complications like cerebral edema (brain swelling). They discuss real-life cases, common mistakes in diagnosing DKA, and how to handle Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS), another dangerous diabetes emergency. Dr. Buss gives helpful tips for monitoring patients, following treatment protocols, and knowing when to call for extra help.

Resources Mentioned:

• CHOP DKA Algorithm: https://pathways.chop.edu/clinical-pathway/diabetes-type1-with-dka-clinical-pathway
• Cerebral Edema and Muir Criteria:https://achpccg.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/tms-picuc-physician-diabetic-ketoacidosis-cerebral-edema-dka-guideline.pdf
• Sick Day Management: Tips for families on managing diabetes during illness to prevent DKA episodes.

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