Hypoglycemia Emergency Flashcards

Board Review

Common signs of hypoglycemia

Confusion, headache, restlessness, bizarre behavior, tachycardia, cool clammy skin

Severe hypoglycemia may lead to:

Seizures and unconsciousness

A diabetic patient becomes pale, shaky, confused, and sweaty during treatment. What do you suspect?

Hypoglycemia

What skin presentation is commonly seen in hypoglycemia?

Cool, clammy skin

What heart rate change is commonly associated with hypoglycemia?

Tachycardia

FIRST priority when managing a hypoglycemic emergency

Maintain the airway.

What position is recommended for an unconscious hypoglycemia patient?

Supine and turned on the side to prevent aspiration

Where can glucose be administered in an unconscious or semi-conscious patient?

Inside the cheek or beneath the tongue

What should be monitored and recorded during a hypoglycemic emergency?

Vital signs

When should EMS/911 be activated during hypoglycemia?

Severe symptoms, unconsiousness, or lack of improvement

Boards commonly test what concept with hypoglycemia?

FIRST action and emergency management sequence

A patient becomes unconscious during a hypoglycemic episode. What is the MOST appriopiate immediate action?

Maintain airway, activate EMS, and provide emergency glucose measures