What is the key laboratory finding that indicates a need for urgent treatment in a child with suspected diabetic ketoacidosis?

In a child suspected of having diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the key laboratory finding that indicates a need for urgent treatment is elevated blood glucose. DKA is a serious complication of diabetes, characterized by a significant buildup of ketones and accompanying metabolic derangements. When blood glucose levels rise above the normal range, typically exceeding 250 mg/dL, it reflects the inadequate insulin levels and the body’s inability to utilize glucose effectively.

High blood glucose is a critical indicator that prompts immediate intervention, as it often correlates with the severity of the ketotic state and acidosis that can develop in DKA. Urgent treatment is necessary to address not just the hyperglycemia but also to counteract the metabolic acidosis that can occur concurrently.

While elevated urine ketones, low blood pressure, and decreased thirst can all be associated with DKA, they do not serve as primary indicators for the necessity of immediate intervention. High urine ketones indicate the presence of ketogenesis but do not necessarily point to the need for urgent treatment on their own. Low blood pressure can be a sign of dehydration or shock, which is a later complication rather than an initial trigger for intervention. Decreased thirst is a symptom that arises with dehydration but does not directly influence the