Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
A critical metabolic emergency in Type 2 Diabetes characterized by profound hyperglycemia and dehydration without significant acidosis or ketones.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in plain English
It requires aggressive fluid resuscitation and insulin monitoring to correct osmotic diuresis and severe volume depletion. A common mistake is misidentifying HHS as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) by failing to recognize the absence of metabolic acidosis and ketones in HHS.
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