Acute Complications

Question 1

What are acute complications of DM?

Answer 1

Hypo and hyperglycemia

Question 2

Hypoglycemia BG

Answer 2

<70mg/dl

Question 3

Signs and symptoms of Stage 1 hypoglycemia

Answer 3

(This is not an all-inclusive list)

nervousness, anxiety, hunger, tremors, nausea, irritability, pallor, diaphoresis, tachycardia

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of Stage 2 hypoglycemia

Answer 4

sudden fatigue, weakness, confusion, amnesia, aphasia, seizures, coma, death

Question 5

Treatment of hypoglycemia

Answer 5

Rule of 15, glucagon

Question 6

Rule of 15

Answer 6

Check BG to make sure it’s hypoglycemia

Eat a 15-gram carb load of fast-acting sugar (juice, soda, candy)

Check BG again after 15 minutes

Follow-up with a more substantial snack with carbs, protein, and fat

Question 7

When is glucagon used?

Answer 7

Used in severe hypoglycemia

Question 8

Glucagon dosing

Answer 8

1mg IV, IM, SQ, NS

IV has the fastest onset of action

Question 9

Glucagon side effects

Answer 9

N/V

Question 10

Glucagon counseling points

Answer 10

Make sure the patient’s family members, friends, and anyone else who’s in frequent contact with them knows how to mix and administer it properly

Question 11

Hyperglycemia BG

Answer 11

> 250mg/dl

Question 12

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia

Answer 12

Weakness, malaise, visual changes, polyuria, nocturia, polyphagia, weight loss

Question 13

Home management of hyperglycemia

Answer 13

Monitor BG frequently
Insulin (if available)
Hydration
Rest
Exercise

Question 14

Severe hyperglycemia can present as…

Answer 14

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS)