Evaluation of the Two-Bag System in Adult Diabetic Ketoacidosis Patients

Analysis of the 2-Bag Method for the Management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Retrospective before and after Study

Purpose: This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of a two-bag method compared with a one-bag method for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). We hypothesize that a two-bag method will decrease the incidence of hypoglycemia, when compared with a one-bag method. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients treated for DKA at a Trinity Health institution between 2020 and 2022. A total of 1084 adult patients were included. Patients treated with the one-bag protocol were included in the pre-group, while those treated with the two-bag protocol were included in the post-group. The primary outcome was incidence of hypoglycemia (blood glucose <70 mg/dL). Secondary outcomes included time to anion gap closure, insulin infusion duration, time to HCO3 correction, and incidence of hypokalemia. Patients were excluded if they were pregnant or diagnosed with Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS), euglycemic DKA, or ketosis from other causes. Results: The incidence of hypoglycemia was 38% in the pre-group and 15.83% in the post-group (P < .001). Patients in the pre-group were on an insulin infusion longer than the post-group (28.37 hours vs 22.17 hours, P < .001). Patients in the pre-group had a slower time to anion gap closure (8.99 hours vs 8.52 hours, P = .021) and had a slower time to HCO3 correction (10.88 hours vs 10.69 hours, P = .004). Between-group incidence of hypokalemia was similar (66.39% vs 60%, P = .079). Conclusions: The two-bag method for the treatment of DKA resulted in improved safety and efficacy outcomes, compared with the one-bag method.

Fluid therapy in diabetic ketoacidosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To evaluate recent evidence (2021-2023) on fluid therapy in diabetic ketoacidosis. Key evidence gaps which require generation of new evidence are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Balanced crystalloid solutions, compared to the commonly recommended and used 0.9% sodium chloride solution (saline), may result in better outcomes for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, including faster resolution of acidosis, less hyperchloremia and shorter hospital length of stay. Upcoming results from randomized trials may provide definitive evidence on the use of balanced crystalloid solutions in diabetic ketoacidosis. Evidence remains scarce or conflicting for the use of "two-bag" compared to conventional "one-bag" fluid, and rates of fluid administration, especially for adult patients. In children, concerns about cerebral oedema from faster fluid administration rates have not been demonstrated in cohort studies nor randomized trials.

SUMMARY

Fluid therapy is a key aspect of diabetic ketoacidosis management, with important evidence gaps persisting for several aspects of management despite recent evidence.

Impact on Diabetic Ketoacidosis Resolution After Implementation of a 2-Bag Fluid Order Set

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious acute complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes that requires prompt management. Limited data exist supporting the use of a 2-bag DKA protocol in adult patients across all levels of care.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 2-bag DKA protocol in comparison with a traditional DKA management strategy.

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients admitted with DKA between January 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022, at a single center. Patients were separated into 2 cohorts, traditional or 2-bag. The primary outcome was time to anion gap closure and/or beta-hydroxybutyrate normalization. Secondary outcomes include length of hospitalization, insulin infusion time, and hypoglycemic events.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-three patients had a DKA order set initiated during their admission, 59 in the traditional cohort and 84 in the 2-bag cohort. Mean time to anion gap closure was shorter in the 2-bag cohort (12.7 vs 16.9 hours; P = 0.005) and beta-hydroxybutyrate normalization (15.6 vs 25.6 hours; P = 0.026). No difference in hospital length of stay (4 vs 6 days; P = 0.113), duration of insulin infusion (41.6 vs 40.6 hours; P = 0.455), or rates of hypoglycemia (6 vs 4; P = 0.872) was seen.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Implementation of a 2-bag DKA protocol in the inpatient setting was associated with a shorter time to anion gap closure and beta-hydroxybutyrate normalization. These findings support the option of expansion of a 2-bag DKA protocol to adult patients across all levels of care irrespective of the admission diagnosis.