Final answer:
In DKA and HHS, patients commonly experience hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia due to urinary losses. These electrolyte imbalances can lead to serious complications, necessitating careful correction and management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Electrolyte Imbalances in DKA and HHS
In Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS), patients typically experience significant electrolyte imbalances due to increased urinary losses, caused by osmotic diuresis from hyperglycemia and ketonuria. Common imbalances include hyponatremia (low sodium), hypokalemia (low potassium), and hypophosphatemia (low phosphate). These disturbances can lead to severe complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even coma. Treatment strategies focus on the repletion of these electrolytes while carefully managing fluid balance and correcting hyperglycemia. Understanding these imbalances enables healthcare professionals to effectively intervene and prevent life-threatening complications associated with these diabetic emergencies.