Vomiting and Type 1 Diabetes - "Never Assume"

Every person with Type 1 Diabetes who has nausea or vomiting MUST be assumed to have diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) until proven otherwise.

Vomiting requires URGENT assessment by checking blood glucose and blood ketones.
RAPID deterioration can occur in DKA and may be lifethreatening.
NEVER ASSUME that vomiting has “just” been caused by food poisoning, “gastro”, alcohol or any other cause until it is clear that insulin has been effectively administered and blood glucose and ketones are not elevated.

Dr Peter Goss FRACP (Vic)
Chair
Australian Paediatric Society Diabetes Committee
5th August 2021