Final answer:
In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), insulin is administered via IV to decrease blood glucose levels and stop ketone production. People with type 1 diabetes need these insulin injections for life due to the lack of endogenous insulin production.
Step-by-step explanation:
To manage diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), you would administer insulin via an intravenous (IV) route. This is because in DKA, there is an acute shortage of insulin in the body, leading to high blood sugar levels and the production of ketones. Insulin injections are crucial in this emergency situation to help decrease blood glucose levels to normal by promoting the transport and storage of glucose into cells, thereby also reducing the production of ketones.
People who have type 1 diabetes are particularly at risk of DKA if they miss an insulin dose, as their bodies don't produce insulin naturally. A meter is used to monitor blood sugar, and when levels are too high, an insulin shot needs to be administered promptly to regulate blood sugar levels. This treatment is necessary for life, as there is no cure for type 1 diabetes. Prompt recognition and treatment of high blood sugar and ketosis are essential for people with diabetes, especially for those with predispositions in certain ethnic groups such as Hispanics and African-Americans who have type 2 diabetes.