Hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state management guidelines updated

By Editor
4th February 2022
Guidelines, Inpatient Research

Latest advice on how to manage hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state in adults with diabetes has been published.

The Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care (JBDS-IP) has released revised guidance – The Management of Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State in Adults – to improve how hyperglycaemic emergencies are managed.

In addition, the updated recommendations also include a new definition of resolution, as well as new audit standards to allow individual teams to benchmark themselves over time.

The Chair of the JBDS-IP and lead author of the revised guidelines, Professor Ketan Dhatariya said: “This document is an update of one of the older JBDS guidelines. It has been revamped and updated taking into account the new data that has become available since it was originally published.

“There are several new things in the document, including updated pathways, a new bedside monitoring chart, as well as the recognition that Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State can occur in those under the age of 18. We have also put in a definition of resolution, something that has been missing.”

He added: “As always there are live documents and we have taken into consideration many of the comments that have been raised over the years about this, and other JBDS documents.”

The updated guidelines are aimed at hospital multidisciplinary Diabetes Specialist Teams (DST), all medical and nursing staff and allied healthcare professionals looking after people with diabetes in hospital and all members of the community diabetes care provider team.

“We encourage anyone who uses the guidance to get in touch with us if they feel something could be done differently or if they spot any errors,” said Professor Dhatariya.

He added: “It is designed with the user in mind, but we are aware that we can always make things better.”

According to the report, Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State is a medical emergency that mainly affects people with pre-existing type 2 diabetes.

Typically, it occurs in those aged over 45 years old, but it can affect younger adults and teenagers.

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State is less common than diabetic ketoacidosis, and it requires a different treatment approach.

To access the revised guidelines, click here.

Read the updated JBDS Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State care pathways in adults here.

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