Diabetes

Relevant information may include measured glucose levels, insulin or other glucose-lowering medications, meal timing, kidney function, physical activity, previous hypoglycemic episodes, symptoms, and emergency treatment. Glucose-meter or continuous glucose monitoring data may help reconstruct the glucose trend surrounding the event and identify whether similar low-glucose patterns occurred before or afterward.

The clinical course may be traced through glucose measurements, blood or urine ketones, bicarbonate and pH, electrolytes, kidney function, hydration status, insulin use, and evidence of infection or other acute illness. Serum osmolality and other laboratory findings may also be relevant when hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state is suspected. Earlier records can help identify changes in glycemic control and possible contributors such as missed insulin, illness, medication effects, or reduced food intake. Because diabetic ketoacidosis can occur without marked hyperglycemia, glucose levels should be interpreted together with ketosis and acid-base findings.