BMS Final: Hypoglycemia

Why does Hypoglycemia happen?

• Too much insulin (or oral hypoglycemic agents)

• Not enough food

• Excessive physical activty

• If you suspect hypoglycemia in your patient, check the BG!

Neuroglycopenic Sx

• Difficulty concentrating

• Confusion

• LOC

• Death

• Weakness/fatigue

• Behavior changes

• Seizures

• Brain damage

Adrenergic Sx

• Shaky of tremulous

• Heart pounding

• Nervous or anxious

Cholinergic Sx

• Diaphoresis

• Hunger

• Tingling

How do you verify BG before treating hypoglycemia?

Verify with an Accucheck

Hypoglycemia Treatment: Conscious Patient

• 15g concentrated carbohydrate

• Recheck blood sugar every 15 mins till BG 100

• Repeat if BG still <70

• If no fingerstick value available, treat anyway

• Follow agency hypoglycemic protocol

Hypoglycemia Treatment: Unconscious Patient

• Do NOT give anything PO

• D50% IV Push

• Glucagon IM/Subcut

• Follow agency hypoglycemic protocol