Predictors of Recurrent Hospital Admission for Patients Presenting With Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State

Factors contributing to diabetic ketoacidosis readmission in hospital settings in the United States: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Hospitalization of patients with DKA creates a significant burden on the US healthcare system. While previous studies have identified multiple potential contributors, a comprehensive review of the factors leading to DKA readmissions within the US healthcare system has not been done. This scoping review aims to identify how access to care, treatment adherence, socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity impact DKA readmission-related patient morbidity and mortality and contribute to the socioeconomic burden on the US healthcare system. Additionally, this study aims to integrate current recommendations to address this multifactorial issue, ultimately reducing the burden at both individual and organizational levels.

METHODS

The PRISMA-SCR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) was used as a reference checklist throughout this study. The Arksey and O'Malley methodology was used as a framework to guide this review. The framework methodology consisted of five steps: (1) Identify research questions; (2) Search for relevant studies; (3) Selection of studies relevant to the research questions; (4) Chart the data; (5) Collate, summarize, and report the results.

RESULTS

A total of 15 articles were retained for analysis. Among the various social factors identified, those related to sex/gender (n = 9) and age (n = 9) exhibited the highest frequency. Moreover, race and ethnicity (n = 8) was another recurrent factor that appeared in half of the studies. Economic factors were also identified in this study, with patient insurance type having the highest frequency (n = 11). Patient income had the second highest frequency (n = 6). Multiple studies identified a link between patients of a specific race/ethnicity and decreased access to treatment. Insufficient patient education around DKA treatment was noted to impact treatment accessibility. Certain recommendations for future directions were highlighted as recurrent themes across included studies and encompassed patient education, early identification of DKA risk factors, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach using community partners such as social workers and dieticians to decrease DKA readmission rates in diabetic patients.

CONCLUSION

This study can inform future policy decisions to improve the accessibility, affordability, and quality of healthcare through evidence-based interventions for patients with DM following an episode of DKA.

Social and Metabolic Characteristics Associated With Multiple DKA Admissions at a Large County Hospital

Context

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a preventable, deadly, and costly complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Some individuals with T1DM have recurrent DKA admissions.

Objective

We sought to characterize social factors that differ between patients with single vs multiple DKA admissions at an urban, safety-net hospital.

Methods

We queried the electronic health records for T1DM patients admitted for DKA from 2019 to 2021. Admission laboratory values, demographic information, and detailed social histories were collected and analyzed statistically, including logistical regression.

Results

A total of 243 patients were admitted for DKA, 64 of whom had multiple DKA admissions. There was no significant difference between the groups in their admission laboratory values, hospital length of stay, health-care payer status, history of homelessness, current employment, living alone, independence of activities of daily living, and barriers to discharge. T1DM patients with multiple DKA admissions had greater rates of substance use disorder (33.0% vs 60.9%; P < .001), especially with cannabis (6.7% vs 25.0%; P < .001), tobacco (26.3% vs 46.3%; P = .002), and psychoactive substance use (1.1% vs 6.3%; P = .043). Regression models of substance use showed increased risk with any substance use (odds ratio [CI] 3.17 [1.78-5.73]; P < .001) and cannabis (3.70 [1.55-8.83]; P = .003).

Conclusion

We identified substance use as a possible predictor of T1DM patients at risk for multiple DKA admissions. Our findings identify a group of T1DM patients for whom interventions may help to decrease recurrence of DKA episodes within similar community hospital populations.

Management of diabetic ketoacidosis

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute life-threatening emergency in patients with diabetes, it can result in serious morbidity and mortality. Management of DKA requires reversing metabolic derangements, correcting volume depletion, electrolyte imbalances and acidosis while concurrently treating the precipitating illness. There are still controversies regarding certain aspects of DKA management. Different society guidelines have inconsistencies in their recommendations, while some aspects of treatment are not precise enough or have not been thoroughly studied. These controversies may include issues such as optimal fluid resuscitation, rate and type of Insulin therapy, potassium and bicarbonate replacement. Many institutions follow common society guidelines, however, other institutions either develop their own protocols for internal use or do not routinely use any protocols, resulting in inconsistencies in treatment and increased risk of complications and suboptimal outcomes. The objectives of this article are to review knowledge gaps and controversies in the treatment of DKA and provide our perspective on these issues. Moreover, we believe that special patient factors and comorbidities should receive more careful attention and consideration. Factors like pregnancy, renal disease, congestive heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, older age, use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and site of care all impact the treatment approach and require tailored management strategies. However, guidelines often lack sufficient recommendations regarding specific conditions and comorbidities, we aim to address unique circumstances and provide an approach to managing complex patients with specific conditions and co-morbidities. We also sought to examine changes and trends in the treatment of DKA, illuminate on aspects of latest research with a perspective towards future developments and modifications.

Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Ketosis-Prone Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Among Patients Newly Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in China

Background

We established a nomogram for ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes mellitus (KP-T2DM) in the Chinese adult population in order to identify high-risk groups early and intervene in the disease progression in a timely manner.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 924 adults with newly diagnosed T2DM from January 2018 to June 2021. All patients were randomly divided into the training and validation sets at a ratio of 7:3. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis method was used to screen the predictors of the training set, and the multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to establish the nomogram prediction model. We verified the prediction model using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, judged the model's goodness-of-fit using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, and predicted the risk of ketosis using the decision curve analysis.

Results

A total of 21 variables were analyzed, and four predictors-hemoglobin A1C, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial C-peptide, and age-were established. The area under the ROC curve for the training and validation sets were 0.8172 and 0.8084, respectively. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed that the prediction model and validation set have a high degree of fit. The decision curve analysis curve showed that the nomogram had better clinical applicability when the threshold probability of the patients was 0.03-0.79.

Conclusion

The nomogram based on hemoglobin A1C, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial C-peptide, and age has good performance and can serve as a favorable tool for clinicians to predict KP-T2DM.

Predicting readmission due to severe hyperglycemia after a hyperglycemic crisis episode

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the readmission pattern and risk factors for patients who experienced a hyperglycemic crisis.

METHODS

Patients admitted to MacKay Memorial Hospital for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) between January 2016 and April 2019 were studied. The timing of the first readmission for hyperglycemia and other causes was recorded. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare patients with hyperglycemia and all-cause readmissions. Cox regression was used to identify independent predictors for hyperglycemia and all-cause readmission post-discharge.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 410 patients, and 15.3 % and 46.3 % of them had hyperglycemia and all-cause readmissions, respectively. The DKA and HHS group showed a similar incidence for hyperglycemia, with the latter group showing a higher incidence of all-cause readmissions. The significant predictors of hyperglycemia readmissions included young age, smoking, hypoglycemia, higher effective osmolality, and hyperthyroidism in the DKA group and higher glycated hemoglobin level in the HHS group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who experienced DKA and HHS had similar hyperglycemia readmission rates; however, predictors in the DKA group were not applicable to the HHS group. Designing different strategies for different types of hyperglycemic crisis is necessary for preventing readmission.

Diabetic ketoacidosis in Saudi Arabia: factors precipitating initial admission and readmission

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the complications of diabetes mellitus (DM), primarily type 1 DM. To our knowledge, only one study explored DKA readmission rates in Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVES

Identify and analyze precipitating factors for DKA admission and readmission.

DESIGN

Medical record review.

SETTING

Tertiary care center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified all patients aged 15 years and older admitted with DKA from 2018 to 2020. Descriptive factors and uni-and multivariate analyses are presented for associations with initial admission and readmission.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relationships between precipitating factors and initial admission and readmission.

SAMPLE SIZE

176 patients.

RESULTS

Most of the patients had type 1 DM (n=157). The median (interquartile percentiles) for duration of DM was 6.0 (1.0-12.0) years. The mean (SD) HbA1C (%) was 11.8 (2.6). The factors that precipitated DKA were most commonly treatment nonadherence (55.1%), followed by infections (31.8%) and nonadherence to diet (25.6%). The most common symptoms were nausea and vomiting (87.5%), followed by abdominal pain (72.7%). During the study period, 32.4% of the sample were read-mitted with DKA. The median (interquartile range) duration between the first and second admission was 12 (4-25) weeks. In the multivariate analysis, increased odds of readmission for DKA were associated with type 1 DM and medication nonadherence (P=.038, P=.013, respectively). The severity of the initial DKA and the control of DM were not associated with the readmission rate.

CONCLUSION

Treatment nonadherence is the leading precipitating factor of DKA in our region. Patient education and counseling play a major role in addressing this preventable complication and its medical and financial burden. We advocate more efforts dedicated toward patient education and logistic support.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective-single center.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

Risk Factors, Trends, and Preventive Measures for 30-Day Unplanned Diabetic Ketoacidosis Readmissions in the Pediatric Population

Background There has been a steady rise in types 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus among the youth in the USA from 2001 to 2017. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a common and preventable presentation of both types of diabetes mellitus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) United States Diabetes Surveillance System, during 2004-2019 an increase in DKA hospitalization rates by 59.4% was noted, with people aged less than 45 years having the highest rates. Readmissions reflect the quality of disease management, which is integrally tied to care coordination and communication with the patient and their families. This study analyzes the trends and risk factors contributing to 30-day unplanned DKA readmissions in the pediatric age group and looks into possible preventive measures to decrease them. Methods A retrospective study was performed using the National Readmission Database (NRD) from January 1, 2017, to December 1, 2017. Pediatric patients aged 18 years and younger with the primary diagnosis of DKA were included using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) code E10.10. All statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 1.0.0.1327 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Pearson's chi-square test was used for categorical variables and Mann-Whitney U test was used for continuous variables. To independently determine the predictors of readmission within each clinical variable, multiple logistic regressions with values presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were performed. Results A weighted total of 19,519 DKA-related pediatric index admissions were identified from the 2017 NRD. Of these pediatric patients, 831 (4.3%) had 30-day DKA readmission. The median age of a child for readmission was 16 years with an interquartile range of 0 to 18 years. A sharp rise in 30-day DKA readmissions was noted for ages 16 years and over. Females in the 0-25th percentile median household income category, with Medicaid covered, large metropolitan areas with at least 1 million residents, and metropolitan teaching hospitals were found to have a statistically significant higher percentage of readmissions. The mean length of stay for those who had a DKA readmission was 2.06 days, with a standard deviation of 1.84 days. The mean hospital charges for those who had a DKA readmission were $ 20,339.70. The 30-day DKA readmission odds were seen to be increased for female patients, Medicaid-insured patients, admissions at metropolitan non-teaching hospitals, and children from 0-25th percentile median household income category. Conclusion There has not been much of a change in the trend and risk factors contributing to the 30-day unplanned DKA readmissions over the years despite the steady rise in cases of diabetes mellitus. The length of stay for those who did not get readmitted within 30 days was longer than for those who did. This could reflect more comprehensive care and discharge planning that may have prevented them from readmission. Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that demands a team effort from the patient, family, healthcare personnel, insurance companies, and lawmakers. There is scope for a lot of improvement with the way our patients are being managed, and a more holistic approach needs to be devised.

Predictors and outcomes of recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis in Israeli adults

AIMS

To identify risk factors for recurrent episodes of DKA that may allow the development of an effective prevention strategies.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of admissions for DKA in adult patients between 2004, and 2017 in a tertiary hospital. The clinical characteristics and outcomes of DKA of patients were stratified into an isolated episode of DKA (group 1) and recurrent episodes (group 2).

RESULTS

385 patients were included in the study, 281 had a single admission of DKA, and 104 had recurrent admissions. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in demographic or clinical variables. Patients in the recurrent DKA group had a younger age at diabetes diagnosis, 32.1 ± 17.08 vs. 36.13 ± 19.52 (p = 0.05). Patients with A1C greater than 9.0% were associated with recurrent DKA in cox regression analysis (HR 2.023; 95% Cl 1.112-3.679; p = 0.021). Recurrent DKA was a significant predictor of one-year mortality in cox regression analysis (HR 0.172; 95% CI 0.04-0.742; p = 0.018).

CONCLUSION

High A1C levels, which account for poorly controlled diabetes, was identified as the strongest predictor of recurrent DKA. This patient population warrants particular attention and the development of intervention strategies in further studies.

Features and long-term outcomes of patients hospitalized for diabetic ketoacidosis

BACKGROUND

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an acute metabolic complication characterized by hyperglycaemia, ketones in blood or urine, and acidosis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to characterize features of patients hospitalized for DKA, to identify triggers for DKA and to evaluate the long-term effects of DKA on glycaemic control, complications of diabetes, re-hospitalizations, and mortality.

METHODS

Historical prospectively collected data of patients hospitalized to medical wards for DKA between 2011 and 2017. Data regarding comorbidities, mortality, triggers, and re-hospitalizations for DKA were also collected.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 160 patients (mean age 38 ± 18 years, 43% male). One fifth of the patients (34 patients, 21%) were newly diagnosed with diabetes, and DKA was their first presentation of the disease. Among the 126 patients with pre-existing diabetes, the common identified triggers for DKA were poor compliance to treatment (22%) and infectious diseases (18%). During over 7 years of follow-up, mortality rate was 9% (15 patients), and re-hospitalization for DKA rate was 31% (50 patients). Risk factors for re-hospitalization for DKA included young age (OR = 1.02, 95% CI, 1.00-1.04), pre-existing diabetes compared to DKA as the first presentation (OR = 5.4, 95% CI, 1.7-18), and poorer glycaemic control before initial hospitalization (10.5 ± 2.5% vs. 9.4 ± 2.2%; OR = 0.8, 95% CI [0.68-0.96]) and after discharge (10.3 ± 2.4% vs. 9.0 ± 1.9%; OR = 0.73, 95% CI [0.61-0.87]). Laboratory tests during the initial hospitalization, smoking, alcohol, or comorbidities did not increase the risk for re-hospitalization for DKA.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk for readmission for DKA is higher for young patients with long duration of diabetes, poor compliance of insulin treatment and poorly controlled diabetes.

Increased length of stay and hospital charges in adolescents with type 1 diabetes and psychiatric illness

OBJECTIVES

Type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in this population contributes to significant healthcare utilization, including emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and ICU care. Comorbid psychiatric illnesses (CPI) are additional risks for increased healthcare utilization. While CPI increased risk for DKA hospitalization and readmission, there are no data evaluating the relationship between CPI and hospital outcomes. We hypothesized that adolescents with T1DM and CPI admitted for DKA have increased length of stay (LOS) and higher charges compared to those without CPI.

METHODS

Retrospective review of 2000-2012 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's (HCUP) Kids' Inpatient Databases (KID). Patients 10-21 years old admitted with ICD-9 codes for DKA or severe diabetes (250.1-250.33) with and without ICD-9 codes for depression (296-296.99, 311) and anxiety (300-300.9). Comparisons of LOS, mortality, and charges between groups (No CPI, Depression and Anxiety) were made with one way ANOVA with Bonferroni correction, independent samples Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni correction and χ².

RESULTS

There were 79,673 admissions during the study period: 68,573 (86%) No CPI, 8,590 (10.7%) Depression and 12,510 (15.7%) Anxiety. Female patients comprised 58.2% (n=46,343) of total admissions, 66% of the Depression group, and 71% of the Anxiety group. Patients with depression or anxiety were older and had longer LOS and higher mean charges (p<0.001 for both).

CONCLUSION

Comorbid depression or anxiety are associated with significantly longer LOS and higher charges in adolescents with T1DM hospitalized for DKA. This study adds to the prior findings of worse outcomes for patients with both T1DM and CPI, emphasizing the importance of identifying and treating these comorbid conditions.

[Acute metabolic complications in diabetes]

Over time, diabetes patients are at increased risk for microvascular and macrovascular complications leading to increased morbidity and mortality compared to metabolically healthy people. In addition, acute life-threatening metabolic derangements at first manifestation as well as during the course of the disease may occur, comprising diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state and hypoglycaemia. Diabetes-related emergencies require fast diagnosis and early treatment initiation as well as close monitoring of vital signs and laboratory parameters. The present article gives an overview on the acute metabolic complications in diabetes, focussing on diagnostic work-up and treatment goals.

Diabetic ketoacidosis: a canary in the mine for mental health disorders?

BACKGROUND

Recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has been linked to mental health disorders, but less is known about single DKA episodes. Most studies are retrospective, lacking control groups.

AIMS

Prospectively examine psychosocial factors in patients presenting with recurrent or single episode DKA and compare to people who have not had DKA.

METHODS

Case-controlled study (consecutive adult DKA admissions April 2015 to December 2016) at Western Health, Melbourne. Data were prospectively collected regarding: diagnosed mental health disorders, likely depression (PHQ-9 questionnaire), diabetes distress (PAID questionnaire) and presence of adverse social factors. A control group without a history of DKA was also recruited.

RESULTS

Of 123 patients admitted with DKA (164 consecutive episodes), 70 consented to participate and 73 age matched type 1 diabetes controls were recruited. Eleven of 18 (61%) with recurrent DKA had a diagnosed mental health disorder, versus 8 of 42 (19%) in the single episode group (p=0.016). The prevalence of likely depression using PHQ-9 was: recurrent 50%, single 40% and controls 22% (recurrent vs controls, p=0.036, single vs controls, p=0.053). Severe diabetes distress (PAID) was present in 47% of recurrent and 34% of single episode DKA (p=0.387). As a group, DKA patients had significantly more unemployment, illicit drug use and tobacco smoking, a lower level of formal education and less regular medical contact compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental health disorders and adverse socio-economic factors appear to be common in patients with DKA. The diagnosis of DKA presents an excellent opportunity to screen for depression and offer appropriate intervention. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Diabetes Complications in Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations in the USA

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Racial and ethnic minority populations have a higher burden of diabetes-related complications. There have been many epidemiologic studies to better define these racial/ethnic disparities in diabetes outcomes with additional studies offering interventions to mitigate them. This narrative review highlights the epidemiologic trends in diabetes complications specific to racial and ethnic minorities and underscores differences in microvascular and macrovascular complications of diabetes, health care utilization, and diabetes prevention efforts and also reviews interventions aimed to reduce racial/ethnic disparities and their limitations.

RECENT FINDINGS

While we have seen in general an overall improvement in complication rates for all people with diabetes, the disparities between Black and Hispanic compared to non-Hispanic White people with diabetes seem to persist. There is a continued need to better understand the underlying causes of and strategies to mitigate race/ethnicity disparities in diabetes complications in the USA.

Multicentre analysis of hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state and diabetic ketoacidosis in type 1 and type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To compare diabetes patients with hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and patients without decompensation (ND).

METHODS

In total, 500,973 patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes of all ages registered in the diabetes patient follow-up (DPV) were included. Analysis was stratified by age (≤ / > 20 years) and by manifestation/follow-up. Patients were categorized into three groups: HHS or DKA-during follow-up according to the most recent episode-or ND.

RESULTS

At onset of diabetes, HHS criteria were met by 345 (68.4% T1D) and DKA by 9824 (97.6% T1D) patients. DKA patients had a lower BMI(-SDS) in both diabetes types compared to ND. HbA1c was higher in HHS/DKA. During follow-up, HHS occurred in 1451 (42.2% T1D) and DKA in 8389 patients (76.7% T1D). In paediatric T1D, HHS/DKA was associated with younger age, depression, and dyslipidemia. Pump usage was less frequent in DKA patients. In adult T1D/T2D subjects, metabolic control was worse in patients with HHS/DKA. HHS and DKA were also associated with excessive alcohol intake, dementia, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and depression.

CONCLUSIONS

HHS/DKA occurred mostly in T1D and younger patients. However, both also occurred in T2D, which is of great importance in the treatment of diabetes. Better education programmes are necessary to prevent decompensation and comorbidities.

Trends in Emergency Department Visits and Inpatient Admissions for Hyperglycemic Crises in Adults With Diabetes in the U.S., 2006-2015

OBJECTIVE

To report U.S. national population-based rates and trends in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) among adults, in both the emergency department (ED) and inpatient settings.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from 1 January 2006 through 30 September 2015 from the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample and National Inpatient Sample to characterize ED visits and inpatient admissions with DKA and HHS. We used corresponding year cross-sectional survey data from the National Health Interview Survey to estimate the number of adults ≥18 years with diagnosed diabetes to calculate population-based rates for DKA and HHS in both ED and inpatient settings. Linear trends from 2009 to 2015 were assessed using Joinpoint software.

RESULTS

In 2014, there were a total of 184,255 and 27,532 events for DKA and HHS, respectively. The majority of DKA events occurred in young adults aged 18-44 years (61.7%) and in adults with type 1 diabetes (70.6%), while HHS events were more prominent in middle-aged adults 45-64 years (47.5%) and in adults with type 2 diabetes (88.1%). Approximately 40% of the hyperglycemic events were in lower-income populations. Overall, event rates for DKA significantly increased from 2009 to 2015 in both ED (annual percentage change [APC] 13.5%) and inpatient settings (APC 8.3%). A similar trend was seen for HHS (APC 16.5% in ED and 6.3% in inpatient). The increase was in all age-groups and in both men and women.

CONCLUSIONS

Causes of increased rates of hyperglycemic events are unknown. More detailed data are needed to investigate the etiology and determine prevention strategies.

Postpartum Readmissions Among Women With Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To estimate whether women with diabetes are at risk for 60-day postpartum readmissions and associated complications.

METHODS

The Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2010 to 2014 was analyzed to determine risk for 60-day postpartum readmissions among women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM), type 2 DM, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and unspecified DM compared with women with no diabetes. Secondary outcomes included evaluating risk for overall severe maternal morbidity during readmissions, as well as wound complications, acute diabetic complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis, venous thromboembolism, and hypertensive diseases of pregnancy. Billing data were used to ascertain both exposures and outcomes. Adjusted log-linear regression models including demographic, hospital, medical and obstetric, and hospital factors were performed with adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and with 95% Cis as measures of association.

RESULTS

Of an estimated 15.7 million delivery hospitalizations, 1.1 million occurred among women with diabetes, of whom 3.2% had type 1 DM, 9.1% type 2 DM, 86.6% GDM, and 1.1% unspecified diabetes. Compared with women without diabetes (1.5% risk for readmission), risk for readmission was significantly higher for women with type 1 DM (4.4%), unspecified diabetes (4.0%), type 2 DM (3.9%), and GDM (2.0%) (P<.01). After adjusting for hospital, demographic, medical, and obstetric risk factors, type 1 DM (aRR 1.77, 95% CI 1.69-1.87), type 2 DM (aRR 1.46, 95% CI 1.42-1.51), unspecified (aRR 1.73, 95% CI 1.59-1.89) and gestational diabetes (aRR 1.16, 95% CI 1.14-1.17) retained increased risk. Among women with diabetes public insurance, lower ZIP code income quartiles, and hospitals with high safety net burdens were associated with higher risk for readmission. In both unadjusted and adjusted analyses, all diabetes diagnoses were associated with readmissions for wound complications, hypertensive diseases of pregnancy, and severe maternal morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Although overall risk for readmission is low, pregnancies complicated by pregestational diabetes in particular are at increased risk. Women in this high-risk group should receive coordinated care and be monitored closely in the postpartum period.

Risk of hyperglycemic crisis episode in diabetic patients with depression: A nationwide population-based cohort study

AIMS

This study aims to investigate the risk of hyperglycemic crisis episode (HCE) in diabetic patients with depression and to examine the relationship between the duration of antidepressants use and the risk of HCE.

METHODS

In all, 26,746 diabetic patients with depression and 106,853 controls (without depression) matched by gender, age, index year, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score were included between 1999 and 2010, then followed until the end of 2013. During the follow-up period, participants who developed HCE were identified. Cox regression analysis was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of the HCE incidence rate between the two groups studied.

RESULTS

Diabetic patients with depression had a significantly increased risk of HCE compared to unaffected controls after adjusted for gender, age, CCI score, and duration of antidepressants use (2.87 versus 2.50 per 1000 person-years, HR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.56-2.03). Also, long-term use of antidepressants in diabetic patients with depression showed a significantly reduced risk of HCE compared to non-users after adjusting for the above-mentioned variables (HR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.35-0.55).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows diabetic patients with depression have an increased risk of HCE, and the use of antidepressants may reduce its risk.

Hospital admissions for hyperglycemic emergencies in young adults at an inner-city hospital

AIMS

There is limited information characterizing young adults (18-35 years) (YA) with diabetes, especially those admitted for hyperglycemic emergencies. The study aims were to examine associations of patient-level characteristics with hyperglycemic emergency hospitalization and to identify variations based on diabetes type and glycemic control.

METHODS

We conducted retrospective analysis of 273 YA admitted to an inner-city hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHS). T-tests, Chi-Square tests, and ANOVA identified differences in demographics, diabetes history, clinical indicators, complications/comorbidities, and hospital admission stratified separately by diabetes type (1 vs 2) and admission HbA1c < 9% (75 mmol/mol), ≥9% to 12% (108 mmol/mol), ≥12%).

RESULTS

Mean admission HbA1c was 12.4% (112 mmol/ml). HbA1c was ≥9.0% for 90.5%. The main DKA/HHS trigger was medication nonadherence (57.9%), with 35.6% presenting with new-onset type 2 diabetes. Only 3.7% utilized outpatient diabetes clinics, 38.8% were re-hospitalized within the year, and 69% lacked insurance. Diabetes complications (44.7%) and psychiatric co-morbidities (35.5%) were common. Significantly more YA with type 1 diabetes had insurance, whereas YA with type 2 diabetes had higher admission HbA1c. YA with HbA1c ≥12% were more likely to be Black and lack insurance.

CONCLUSIONS

YA hospitalized for DKA/HHS in an inner-city hospital tended to have severely uncontrolled diabetes. Many already had comorbidities and diabetes complications, high use of acute care services and low use of diabetes specialty services. YA characteristics varied by diabetes type and HbA1c. Overall, a substantial percentage lacked insurance, potentially impacting healthcare utilization patterns and medication adherence, and leading to DKA/HHS admissions.

PREDICTORS FOR ADVERSE OUTCOMES IN DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS IN A MULTIHOSPITAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Objective: To determine predictors of prolonged length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission, and 30-day mortality in a multihospital health system. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 531 adults admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) to a multihospital health system between November 2015 and December 2016. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Linear regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for predictors and their association with prolonged LOS (3.2 days), 30-day readmission, and 30-day mortality. Results: Significant predictors for prolonged LOS included: intensive care unit (ICU) admission (OR, 2.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.38 to 3.27), disease duration (nonlinear) (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.49), non-white race (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.60), age at admission (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.04), and Elixhauser index (EI) (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.29). Shorter time to consult after admission (median [Q1, Q3] of 11.3 [3.9, 20.7] vs. 14.8 [7.4, 37.3] hours, P<.001) was associated with a shorter LOS. Significant 30-day readmission predictors included: Medicare insurance (OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.13 to 4.86) and EI (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.21 to 1.41). Endocrine consultation was associated with reduced 30-day readmission (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.92). A predictive model for mortality was not generated because of low event rates. Conclusion: EI, non-white race, disease duration, age, Medicare, and ICU admission were associated with adverse outcomes. Endocrinology consultation was associated with lower 30-day readmission, and earlier consultation resulted in a shorter LOS. Abbreviations: CI = confidence interval; DKA = diabetic ketoacidosis; EI = Elixhauser index; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; ICD = International Classification of Diseases; ICU = intensive care unit; LOS = length of stay; OR = odds ratio; Q = quartile.

Mental health in South East London general hospitals: using electronic patient records to explore associations between psychiatric diagnoses and length of stay in a patient cohort receiving liaison psychiatry input

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric illnesses are prevalent in general hospitals and associated with length of stay (LOS). Liaison psychiatry teams provide psychiatric care in acute hospitals and can improve mental health-related outcomes but, to achieve ambitious policy targets, services must understand local need.

AIMS

Using electronic patient records, we investigate associations between psychiatric diagnoses and LOS in South East London hospitals.

METHOD

Patient records were extracted using the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Biomedical Research Centre Case Register Interactive Search system. There were 6378 admissions seen by liaison psychiatry aged <65 years between 2011 and 2016. Linear mixed-effects models investigated the impact of psychiatric diagnoses on LOS. Potential confounders included medical diagnoses, gender, age, ethnicity, social deprivation, hospital site and investment per admission.

RESULTS

According to marginal means, longer LOS is associated with primary diagnoses of organic disorders (mean: 23 days, 95% CI 20.39-25.61), depressive disorders (mean: 11.03 days, 95% CI 9.74-25.61) and psychotic disorders (mean: 10.63 days, 95% CI 8.75-12.51). Shorter LOS is associated with personality disorders (mean: 6.28 days, 95% CI 4.12-8.45), bipolar affective disorders (mean 6.81 days, 95% CI 3.49-10.14) and substance-related problems (mean 7.53 days, 95% CI 6.01-9.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatric diagnoses have differential associations with in-patient LOS. Liaison psychiatry teams aim to mitigate the impact of psychiatric illness on patient and hospital outcomes but understanding local need and the wider context of care provision is needed to maximise potential benefits.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

M.H. is a consultant liaison psychiatrist for King's College Hospital adult liaison psychiatry team. At the time of writing, H.T. was senior business manager at SLaM psychological medicine and integrated care clinical academic group. These may be considered financial and/or non-financial interests given the implications of findings for service funding.

Recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to examine risk factors for recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis and determine interventions to prevent future admissions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Review article.

RESULTS

Recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious and not uncommon health problem. Diabetic ketoacidosis is associated with severe morbidity and mortality and hospital admissions due to this problem constitute a serious economic burden on the healthcare system. Younger age at diabetic ketoacidosis onset, poor baseline glycemic control and elevated HbA1C, patient comorbidities, depression, alcohol or substance abuse, particularly active cocaine use, have been associated with recurrent diabetic ketoacidosis. In addition, socioeconomic factors (such as ethnic minority status, use of public health insurance and underinsurance), psychosocial, economic, and behavioral factors (including financial constraint, stretching a limited insulin supply, and homelessness) have been all reported to be associated with readmission among diabetic ketoacidosis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Identifying high-risk patients during the first diabetic ketoacidosis admission and performing relevant interventions (repeated instructions of insulin use, social help and involvement of family members in medical treatment, collaboration with the patient's primary care physician in order to establish a close and frequent follow up program) may help prevent future admissions. Further studies need to take place to determine whether early interventions with those factors prevent future admissions.

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome: review of acute decompensated diabetes in adult patients

Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS) are life threatening complications that occur in patients with diabetes. In addition to timely identification of the precipitating cause, the first step in acute management of these disorders includes aggressive administration of intravenous fluids with appropriate replacement of electrolytes (primarily potassium). In patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, this is always followed by administration of insulin, usually via an intravenous insulin infusion that is continued until resolution of ketonemia, but potentially via the subcutaneous route in mild cases. Careful monitoring by experienced physicians is needed during treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis and HHS. Common pitfalls in management include premature termination of intravenous insulin therapy and insufficient timing or dosing of subcutaneous insulin before discontinuation of intravenous insulin. This review covers recommendations for acute management of diabetic ketoacidosis and HHS, the complications associated with these disorders, and methods for preventing recurrence. It also discusses why many patients who present with these disorders are at high risk for hospital readmissions, early morbidity, and mortality well beyond the acute presentation.

Inpatient care for stiff person syndrome in the United States: a nationwide readmission study

Background

Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by axial muscle rigidity and involuntary spasms. Autoimmune and neoplastic diseases are associated with SPS. Our study objectives were to describe inpatient care for SPS in the United States and characterize 30-day readmissions.

Methods

We queried the 2014 Nationwide Readmission Database for hospitalizations where a diagnosis of SPS was recorded. For readmission analyses, we excluded encounters with missing length of stay, hospitalization deaths, and out-of-state and December discharges. National estimates of index hospitalizations and 30-day readmissions were computed using survey weighting methods. Unconditional logistic regression was used to examine associations between demographic, clinical, and hospital characteristics and readmission.

Results

There were 836 patients with a recorded diagnosis of SPS during a 2014 hospitalization. After exclusions, 703 patients remained, 9.4% of which were readmitted within 30 days. Frequent reasons for index hospitalization were SPS (27.8%) and diabetes with complications (5.1%). Similarly, readmissions were predominantly for diabetes complications (24.2%) and SPS. Most readmissions attributed to diabetes complications (87.5%) were to different hospitals. Female sex (OR, 3.29; CI: 1.22–8.87) and routine discharge (OR, 0.26; CI: 0.10–0.64) were associated with readmission, while routine discharge (OR, 0.18; CI: 0.04–0.89) and care at for-profit hospitals (OR, 10.87; CI: 2.03–58.25) were associated with readmission to a different hospital.

Conclusions

Readmissions in SPS may result from disease complications or comorbid conditions. Readmissions to different hospitals may reflect specialty care, gaps in discharge planning, or medical emergencies. Studies are required to determine if readmissions in SPS are preventable.

Recurrent hospitalizations for severe hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia among U.S. adults with diabetes

AIMS

Examine 30-day readmissions for recurrent hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in a national cohort of adults with diabetes.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data from OptumLabs Data Warehouse for all adults with diabetes hospitalized January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2014 with a principal diagnosis of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. We examined the rates and risk factors of 30-day readmissions for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

RESULTS

After 6419 index hypoglycemia hospitalizations, 1.2% were readmitted for recurrent hypoglycemia, 0.2% for hyperglycemia, and 8.6% for other causes. Multimorbidity was the strongest predictor of recurrent hypoglycemia. After 6872 index hyperglycemia hospitalizations, 4.0% were readmitted for recurrent hyperglycemia, 0.4% for hypoglycemia, and 5.4% for other causes. Recurrent hyperglycemia was less likely in older patients (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5-0.9 for 45-64 vs. <45 years) and with the addition of a new glucose-lowering medication at index discharge (OR 0.40; 95% CI 0.2-0.7). New hypoglycemia readmissions were most likely among patients ≥75 years (OR 13.3, 95% CI 2.4-73.4, vs. <45 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients hospitalized for hyperglycemia are often readmitted for recurrent hyperglycemia, while patients hospitalized for hypoglycemia are generally readmitted for unrelated causes. Early recognition of high risk patients may identify opportunities to improve post-discharge management and reduce these events.

Clinical chameleons: an emergency medicine focused review of carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is found in the environment, in the home, and in the human body as a normal part of mammalian metabolism. Poisoning from CO, a common exposure, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality if not recognized and treated in a timely manner. This review evaluates the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning, conditions that present similar to CO poisoning, and an approach to the recognition and management for CO poisoning. CO poisoning accounts for thousands of emergency department visits annually. If not promptly recognized and treated, it leads to significant morbidity and mortality. CO poisoning poses a challenge to the emergency physician because it classically presents with non-specific symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Due to nonspecific presentations, it is easily mistaken for other, more benign diagnoses such as viral infection. The use of specific historical clues such as exposure to non-conventional heat sources or suicide attempts in garages, as well as the use of targeted diagnostic testing with CO-oximetry, can confirm the diagnosis of CO poisoning. Once diagnosed, treatment options range from observation to the use of hyperbaric oxygen. CO poisoning is an elusive diagnosis. This review evaluates the signs and symptoms CO poisoning, common chameleons or mimics, and an approach to management of CO poisoning.