KETONE KOMMANDMENTS

1. All children with diabetes who have a blood sugar 300 mg/dl or HIGHER need urine ketones checked unless stated otherwise by the endocrinologist

2. Urine ketones are reported as Negative, Trace, Small, Moderate, or Large

3. Any measurable level of urine ketones should always be shared with the resident

4. Urine ketones that are trace or small indicate a need to encourage sugar free fluids, preferably water, unless stated otherwise by the endocrinologist

5. Urine ketones in the Moderate or Large range always require notification of the resident or attending with proper documentation. Supplemental insulin may be needed if blood sugar levels are elevated.

6. If present when measured, urine ketones should then be checked at each voiding UNTIL NEGATIVE, unless stated otherwise by the endocrinologist

7. Ketones are a sign of inadequate insulin action and should always be considered important to share with the physician. Ketones will clear up more slowly with insulin therapy compared to blood sugars, which will usually correct more quickly.

Prepared by Dr. Ponder 5/03

Remember…your body will not change overnight but every change you make can improve your health!

Contact Information

The Driscoll Children’s Hospital Diabetes Team:

Jennifer Amaral
Endocrinology and Diabetes

Stephen W. Ponder, M.D. C.D.E.
Endocrinology and Diabetes

Susan Sullivan, RN, CDE
Phyllis Secraw, RN, DE
Melissa Claire, RN, DE
Meaghan Wickersham, RD

Children's Diabetes and Endocrine Center
4th Floor in the Joseph M. Sloan Building
3533 S. Alameda St.
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Clinic appointments: (361) 694-4986
Business Office: (361) 694-4864
Office Fax: (361) 694-4832

KETONE KOMMANDMENTS

Remember…your body will not change overnight but every change you make can improve your health!

Contact Information

Further Reading

For Patients and Parents

Additional Resources