Q: How DKA is categorized as per its level of severity?

Answer:

The American Diabetes Association categorizes DKA in adults into one of three stages of severity according to blood PH, Bicarbonate level and mental status.

Mild: pH 7.25 and 7.30; serum bicarbonate 15–18 mmol/l; the patient is alert

Moderate: pH 7.00–7.25, bicarbonate 10–15, mild drowsiness

Severe: pH below 7.00, bicarbonate below 10, stupor or coma