Topic overview

Start with the big picture

The lesson begins with assessment of airway, breathing, and circulation alongside capillary glucose measurement in an altered patient. It then distinguishes conscious patients able to take oral carbohydrates from those with severe hypoglycemia who cannot safely swallow, and notes the particular concern of sulfonylurea-associated recurrence. For DKA and HHS, the material organizes care around initial fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, potassium assessment and replacement, and selected use of bicarbonate or phosphate. It also covers adjusting fluids as glucose falls, investigating and treating precipitating factors, and ongoing monitoring and transition of care. These interventions require clinical assessment and monitoring; the preview is an introduction, not a substitute for the complete lesson or local protocols.