How to Test for Ketones

Diabetes.co.uk

10 Apr 201203:01

Summary

TLDRThe video script discusses the importance of ketone testing for individuals with type 1 diabetes, where high blood glucose levels can lead to ketoacidosis. It advises testing when blood glucose exceeds 15 millimoles per liter. Two methods are presented: traditional urine ketone testing strips and modern blood glucose meters that test for ketones. Bayer keto sticks are used as an example, with instructions on how to use them. The script also provides guidance on managing ketone levels, emphasizing the need for immediate health team advice at higher readings.

Takeaways

🩺 Testing for ketones is crucial for people with type 1 diabetes.
🚨 High ketone levels in type 1 diabetes can lead to a dangerous condition called ketoacidosis.
📈 Diabetes UK advises testing for ketones when blood glucose levels exceed 15 millimoles per liter.
🔍 There are two methods to test for ketones: urine ketone testing strips and blood glucose meters with ketone testing capabilities.
📝 For urine testing, use Bayer keto sticks and follow the instructions carefully, including checking the expiry date.
💧 Apply urine to the test strip either by dipping or by passing urine over the test area.
⏱ Begin timing immediately after applying urine and compare the strip's color to the color chart within 15 seconds.
📉 A trace level of ketones (below 0.5 millivolts per liter) requires no action.
💦 Slightly elevated ketone levels (around 1.5 millimoles per liter) suggest drinking water and retesting after a few hours.
⚠️ High ketone readings (around or above 3.0 millimoles per liter) necessitate immediate contact with a health team.

Q & A

Why is testing for ketones important for people with type 1 diabetes?
-Testing for ketones is important for people with type 1 diabetes because a lack of insulin can lead to higher levels of ketones, which can cause a dangerous state called ketoacidosis.
What is the recommended blood glucose level threshold for testing ketones according to Diabetes UK?
-Diabetes UK recommends that people with type 1 diabetes test for ketones if blood glucose levels become too high, usually above 15 millimoles per liter.
What are the two different ways to test for ketones mentioned in the script?
-The two different ways to test for ketones are using urine ketone testing strips and using blood glucose meters that can test for ketones in the blood.
How is a blood test for ketones performed?
-A blood test for ketones is performed similarly to a blood glucose test, and for more information on this, one can refer to a 'how to do a blood test' video.
What is the first step to take before using Bayer keto sticks for ketone testing?
-Before using Bayer keto sticks, one should check the expiry date on the tub to ensure the strips are still good for use.
How should you handle a urine ketone testing strip to avoid contamination?
-To avoid contamination, you should remove a strip from the tub without touching the spongy end of the strip.
How long should you wait after applying urine to a ketone test strip before comparing the color?
-You should begin timing immediately after applying urine to the strip and compare the color after 15 seconds.
What should you do if any color changes occur on the ketone test strip after 15 seconds?
-You should disregard any color changes that happen after 15 seconds when interpreting the results of a ketone test strip.
What action is recommended if a ketone level is below 0.5 millimoles per liter?
-If the ketone level is below 0.5 millimoles per liter, which is a trace level, no action is needed.
What should you do if your ketone level is around 1.5 millimoles per liter?
-If the ketone level is around 1.5 millimoles per liter, indicating slightly higher than normal levels, it's recommended to drink a glass of water each hour and perform a follow-up test three to four hours later.
What is the recommended course of action if ketone levels are around or above 3.0 millimoles per liter?
-If ketone levels are around or above 3.0 millimoles per liter, which is a higher reading, you should contact your health team immediately for advice.

Outlines

00:00

🩺 Ketone Testing for Type 1 Diabetes

This paragraph discusses the importance of ketone testing for individuals with type 1 diabetes. Due to insulin deficiency, these patients may experience elevated ketone levels, which can lead to ketoacidosis, a serious condition. Diabetes UK advises testing for ketones when blood glucose levels exceed 15 millimoles per liter. The paragraph outlines two methods for ketone testing: using urine ketone testing strips and blood glucose meters capable of ketone detection. It also provides a step-by-step guide on how to use Bayer keto sticks for urine ketone testing, emphasizing the importance of checking the expiry date, handling the strip correctly, and interpreting the color changes within the first 15 seconds. The management advice from Bayer includes actions to take based on different ketone levels, such as no action for trace levels, drinking water and retesting for slightly elevated levels, and contacting the health team for higher readings.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Ketones

Ketones are molecules that are produced by the liver when the body starts breaking down fats for energy due to a lack of available glucose. In the context of the video, ketones are relevant for people with type 1 diabetes because high levels of blood glucose can lead to increased ketone production, which can be dangerous if not managed. The video discusses the importance of testing for ketones to prevent a state of ketoacidosis.

💡Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This results in little or no insulin production, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. The video emphasizes the importance of ketone testing for individuals with type 1 diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels and prevent complications.

💡Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that occurs when there are high levels of ketones in the blood, which can lead to a change in blood pH, making it more acidic. This can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The video mentions that testing for ketones is crucial to prevent this state, especially when blood glucose levels are too high.

💡Diabetes UK

Diabetes UK is a leading charity that provides information, support, and advice for people affected by diabetes. In the video, it is mentioned as a source of recommendation for testing ketones when blood glucose levels become too high, indicating its role in setting guidelines and standards for diabetes management.

💡Blood Glucose Levels

Blood glucose levels refer to the amount of glucose, a type of sugar, in the blood. For people with diabetes, maintaining these levels within a target range is crucial. The video discusses the threshold of 15 millimoles per liter as a trigger point for ketone testing, highlighting the importance of monitoring blood glucose levels.

💡Urine Ketone Testing Strips

Urine ketone testing strips are a traditional method for measuring ketone levels in the urine. The video script describes the process of using these strips, which involves dipping the strip into a urine sample and comparing the color change to a chart to determine ketone levels.

💡Blood Glucose Meters

Blood glucose meters are devices used to measure the amount of glucose in the blood. The video mentions the development of meters that can also test for ketones, providing a more direct and possibly more accurate method of monitoring ketone levels.

💡Bayer Keto Sticks

Bayer Keto Sticks are a specific brand of urine ketone testing strips. The video provides detailed instructions on how to use these sticks, including checking the expiry date, handling the strip, and interpreting the color changes to assess ketone levels.

💡Color Chart

The color chart is a reference tool used with urine ketone testing strips to interpret the color changes that occur after the strip is dipped in urine. The video emphasizes the importance of comparing the test strip's color to the chart within 15 seconds to ensure accurate ketone level readings.

💡Management of Ketone Levels

The video outlines a strategy for managing ketone levels based on the results of the test. It provides guidance on what actions to take depending on the level of ketones detected, such as drinking water, performing follow-up tests, or contacting a health team for advice.

Highlights

Testing for ketones is crucial for people with type 1 diabetes.

In type 1 diabetes, lack of insulin leads to higher ketone levels.

High ketone levels can result in ketoacidosis, a dangerous state.

Diabetes UK recommends ketone testing when blood glucose levels exceed 15 millimoles per liter.

Ketone testing can prevent dangerous ketone levels through timely advice and treatment.

Traditional urine ketone testing strips are one method for testing.

Newer blood glucose meters can also test for ketones in the blood.

Blood ketone testing is similar to blood glucose testing.

Check the expiry date on ketone test strips before use.

Handle ketone test strips carefully to avoid contamination.

Apply urine to the test area of the strip or dip it into a urine sample.

Begin timing immediately after applying urine to the strip.

Compare the strip's color to the color chart within 15 seconds.

Disregard any color changes after 15 seconds.

Bayer keto sticks provide specific advice for managing ketone levels.

A trace level of ketones below 0.5 millimoles per liter requires no action.

At 1.5 millimoles per liter, drink water and retest after a few hours.

If ketone levels are around or above 3.0 millimoles per liter, seek immediate advice.