American family physician
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Diabetic ketoacidosis can be effectively treated by using a few properly selected tests and more physiologic administration of insulin and intravenous fluids. Insulin is given by intravenous drip at an initial rate of about 0.1 u per kg per hour. The initial hydrating fluid is 5 percent glucose in 0.45 percent saline plus 40 mEq of potassium chloride or buffered potassium phosphate, given at a rate of 250 mL per hour. Arterial blood gas measurements are not needed.