Chapter 20 Flashcards
Diabetes Mellitus
A chronic condition affecting glucose metabolism.
Glucose
Primary energy source for body cells.
Carbohydrates
Main food source, broken into simple sugars.
Sucrose
Table sugar, a type of carbohydrate.
Lactose
Sugar found in milk and dairy products.
Starches
Complex carbohydrates found in potatoes and bread.
Simple Sugars
Absorbed sugars including glucose, galactose, fructose.
Blood Glucose Level
Concentration of glucose in the bloodstream.
Brain Cells
Require glucose exclusively for energy.
Osmotic Pressure
Water movement caused by glucose concentration.
Edema
Swelling due to excess fluid in tissues.
Hypoglycemia
Dangerously low blood glucose levels.
Hyperglycemia
Dangerously high blood glucose levels.
Brain Dysfunction
Altered mental status due to glucose depletion.
Insulin
Hormone that helps glucose enter cells.
Energy Sources
Fats and proteins can substitute for glucose.
Dehydration
Loss of water from the body.
Neurologic Injuries
Conditions like head injury or stroke.
Glucose Administration
Careful use of glucose in neurologic emergencies.
Cell Function
Impaired by lack of glucose or excess by-products.
Glucose Absorption
Occurs in the digestive tract post-carbohydrate digestion.
Complex Sugars
Sugars that are broken down into simpler forms.
Consequences of Low Glucose
Deterioration of brain function and potential death.
Excess Glucose
Glucose spills into urine, causing dehydration.
Diabetes Complication
Dehydration is common in diabetic patients.
Insulin
Hormone that lowers blood glucose levels.
Glucagon
Hormone that raises blood glucose levels.
Pancreas
Organ secreting insulin and glucagon.
Glycogen
Stored form of glucose in the liver.
Insulin Receptor
Site where insulin attaches on cell membranes.
Glucose Transport
Insulin opens channels for glucose entry into cells.
Blood-Brain Barrier
Allows glucose to enter brain without insulin.
Alternative Energy Sources
Cells use fats and proteins when glucose is low.
Emergency Care
Immediate treatment for low blood glucose levels.
Glucose Metabolism
Process of converting glucose to energy in cells.
Insulin Absence
Leads to increased blood glucose and cell starvation.
Brain Energy Source
Brain exclusively uses glucose for energy.
Glycogen Conversion
Glucagon converts glycogen back to glucose.
Noncarbohydrate Conversion
Glucagon converts other substances to glucose.
Blood Glucose Levels
Glucagon maintains glucose levels during fasting.
Insulin Facilitation
Insulin aids glucose movement into cells.
High Blood Glucose
Stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas.
Low Blood Glucose
Stimulates glucagon secretion from the pancreas.
Cellular Starvation
Occurs when glucose cannot enter cells.
Dehydration Mechanism
Excess glucose draws water into urine.
Brain Dysfunction
Occurs when glucose supply is insufficient.
Epinephrine
Hormone released during low blood glucose.
Insulin
Hormone that decreases blood glucose levels.
Glycogen
Stored form of glucose in liver and muscles.
Hypoglycemia
Condition of dangerously low blood glucose.
Glycogenolysis
Process of converting glycogen to glucose.
Gluconeogenesis
Conversion of noncarbohydrates into glucose.
Blood Glucose Level (BGL)
Measurement of glucose concentration in blood.
Fasting Blood Glucose
Blood glucose after not eating for hours.
Normal BGL Range
70 to 140 mg/dL for healthy individuals.
Postprandial Glucose
Blood glucose level after a meal.
Pancreas
Organ that secretes insulin and glucagon.
Liver
Organ that stores glycogen and produces glucose.
Kidneys
Organs that also release glucose from glycogen.
Glucose Uptake
Process of cells absorbing glucose from blood.
Blood Glucose Regulation
Maintaining stable blood glucose levels.
Adrenal Glands
Glands that release epinephrine during stress.
Brain Glucose Sensitivity
Brain’s high sensitivity to glucose fluctuations.
Insulin Secretion
Release of insulin in response to high glucose.
Glucose Cycle
Repeating process of glucose regulation.
Diabetic Regulation
Impaired glucose regulation in diabetes.
Normal Metabolism
Regular metabolic processes maintaining glucose levels.
Blood Glucose Level (BGL)
Amount of glucose in the blood measured in mg/dL.
Glycogen
Stored glucose in the liver for energy.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose, typically BGL of 70 mg/dL or less.
Hyperglycemia
High blood glucose, typically BGL greater than 130 mg/dL.
Glucometer
Device to measure blood glucose levels accurately.
Capillary Blood
Blood obtained from a finger stick for glucose testing.
Normal Blood Glucose Range
Typically 70 to 130 mg/dL for nondiabetic patients.
Postprandial Glucose
Blood glucose level after eating, rises to 180 mg/dL.
Fasting Blood Glucose
Blood glucose level after fasting, should be 70-100 mg/dL.
Diabetic Patient
Patient with diabetes, may have higher normal glucose levels.
Assessment Tips
Consider last meal timing when checking BGL.
Glucose Measurement Procedure
Follow manufacturer’s steps for accurate glucose testing.
Altered Mental Status
Primary sign of hypoglycemia indicating low glucose levels.
Carbohydrate-containing Foods
Foods that significantly affect blood glucose levels.
Emergency Medical Care
Use BGL readings alongside patient history for treatment.
Expired Test Strips
Can lead to inaccurate readings in glucose meters.
Calibration of Device
Ensures accuracy of blood glucose meter readings.
Glucose Meter Usage
Requires proper training to avoid inaccurate results.
Blood Glucose Fluctuations
Normal variations based on food intake and activity.
Glucose Concentration Reading
Numerical value indicating glucose level in blood.
Diabetic Emergency
Condition requiring immediate treatment based on BGL.
Energy Sources
Fats and proteins used when glycogen stores are depleted.
Portable Blood Glucose Meters
Devices used by EMS and patients for glucose testing.
Glucometer
Device for measuring blood glucose levels.
Lancet
Small device used to prick the skin.
Lancet device
Tool that aids in finger pricking.
Blood flow
Movement of blood to the fingers.
Test strip
Strip used to analyze blood glucose.
Alcohol swab
Used to cleanse the pricking site.
Hyperglycemia
Abnormally high blood glucose levels.
Diabetes mellitus (DM)
Condition with disrupted carbohydrate metabolism.
Insulin
Hormone regulating glucose uptake by cells.
Cell receptors
Sites that recognize insulin for glucose entry.
Glucose metabolism
Process of using glucose for energy.
Blood glucose value
Result displayed after glucose testing.
Biohazard container
Container for disposing of medical waste.
Pricking technique
Method for obtaining blood sample efficiently.
Warm fingers
Improves blood flow for better sampling.
Drop of blood
Required amount for glucose testing.
Waste first drop
First blood drop is discarded for accuracy.
Testing time
Blood glucose value displayed in 40-45 seconds.
Glucose entry
Process of glucose entering cells for energy.
Energy starvation
Cells lack glucose, must use fat for energy.
Brain glucose access
Brain cells can use glucose without insulin.
Manufacturer’s recommendations
Guidelines for using glucose meters and strips.
Blood glucose collection
Gathering blood for testing from fingertip.
Blood Glucose Level
Concentration of glucose in the blood.
Kidney Reabsorption
Process of kidneys reclaiming substances from urine.
Polydipsia
Excessive thirst due to dehydration.
Polyuria
Frequent urination caused by high glucose.
Polyphagia
Increased hunger due to energy starvation.
Three Ps
Common signs of diabetes: polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia.
Hyperglycemia
High blood glucose levels in diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Insulin-dependent diabetes, requires insulin injections.
Type 2 Diabetes
Non-insulin-dependent diabetes, managed with diet and drugs.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Severe hyperglycemic condition in Type 1 diabetes.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose levels, can be dangerous.
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome (HHS)
Severe hyperglycemia without ketosis in Type 2 diabetes.
A1C Test
Measures average blood glucose over three months.
Fasting Blood Glucose
Blood glucose after fasting, typically >126 mg/dL in diabetes.
Random Blood Glucose
Blood glucose at any time, typically >200 mg/dL in diabetes.
Dehydration
Loss of body water, often due to polyuria.
Blurry Vision
Visual impairment due to fluid changes from glucose.
Insulin
Hormone regulating blood glucose levels.
Diet and Exercise
Key management strategies for Type 2 diabetes.
Fat Deposits
Blockages in blood vessels leading to complications.
Diabetes Prevalence
Approximately 10% of the population has diabetes.
Demographics of Diabetes
More common in white individuals than non-white.
Peak Onset Ages
Type 1 diabetes peaks at ages 5-15 and 10-14.
A1C Test
Measures average blood glucose over months.
Normal A1C Range
Normal A1C for non-diabetics is 4-5.6%.
Prediabetes A1C Range
A1C between 5.7-6.4% indicates prediabetes.
Diabetes A1C Level
A1C of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
Blood Sugar Levels
Table correlates A1C percentage with blood sugar.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose level, typically below 70 mg/dL.
Hyperglycemia
High blood glucose level, exceeding normal limits.
Acute Diabetic Emergencies
Conditions from extreme blood glucose levels.
Altered Mental Status
Common sign of hypoglycemia in diabetics.
Insulin Overdose
Excess insulin can cause severe hypoglycemia.
Type 1 Diabetes
More prone to hypoglycemia due to insulin use.
Type 2 Diabetes
Can also experience hypoglycemia from medications.
Brain Energy Source
Brain cells primarily use glucose for energy.
Severe Hypoglycemia
Annual severe episodes in diabetics are common.
Self-Treated Hypoglycemia
Mild episodes occur 1-2 times weekly.
Insulin Function
Insulin helps move glucose into body cells.
BGL Definition
Blood glucose level; critical for diabetes management.
Hypoglycemia Symptoms
Signs include confusion, dizziness, and weakness.
Insulin and Meals
Insulin must be balanced with food intake.
Prolonged Hypoglycemia
Can occur with long-lasting oral diabetes medications.
Emergency Monitoring
Patients need monitoring if hypoglycemia is severe.
Glucose Binding
Glucose binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells.
A1C Correlation Table
Table 20-2 shows A1C and average blood sugar.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose causing brain dysfunction.
Insulin Shock
Historical term for severe hypoglycemia symptoms.
Glucagon
Hormone that increases blood glucose levels.
Tachycardia
Increased heart rate due to hypoglycemia.
Diaphoresis
Excessive sweating associated with hypoglycemia.
Mental Status Deterioration
Indicator of low blood glucose impact.
Brain Cell Dysfunction
Failure of brain cells due to glucose deprivation.
Signs of Hypoglycemia
Symptoms include confusion, drowsiness, and seizures.
Rapid Onset
Hypoglycemia symptoms appear within minutes.
Bizarre Behavior
Unusual actions due to hypoglycemia effects.
Pale, Cool Skin
Skin appearance during hypoglycemic episodes.
Warm Sensation
Feeling experienced during hypoglycemic reactions.
Seizures
Severe hypoglycemia can lead to convulsions.
Hemiparesis
Weakness on one side, mimicking stroke symptoms.
Altered Mental Status
Change in consciousness due to hypoglycemia.
Blood Glucose Levels
Critical for diagnosing hypoglycemia severity.
Medical Identification
Bracelets indicating diabetes for emergency recognition.
Intoxicated Appearance
Hypoglycemia may mimic alcohol intoxication.
Glucose Meter
Device used to measure blood glucose levels.
Treatment for Hypoglycemia
Immediate glucose administration to restore levels.
High Index of Suspicion
Critical in assessing altered mental status.
Severe Cases
Hypoglycemia can lead to coma or death.
Hypoglycemia
Condition of low blood glucose levels.
Alcohol’s effect on glucose
Alcohol inhibits glucose production from noncarbohydrates.
Hypoglycemia Unawareness
Inability to recognize hypoglycemia symptoms over time.
Emergency Care for Hypoglycemia
Immediate sugar administration to raise blood glucose.
Open airway
First step for unresponsive hypoglycemic patients.
Administer oxygen
Provide supplemental oxygen if patient shows shock signs.
Blood glucose assessment
Measure glucose levels to guide treatment.
Oral glucose
Medication of choice for hypoglycemic patients.
Altered mental status
Change in consciousness affecting patient response.
Positive pressure ventilation
Used if breathing is inadequate.
Nasal cannula
Device for delivering supplemental oxygen.
Nonrebreather mask
Used when nasal cannula fails to provide oxygen.
High-sugar food
Quick source to raise blood glucose levels.
Brain cell function
Dependent on adequate glucose supply.
Mental status improvement
Occurs when blood glucose levels are restored.
Squeeze method
Administer oral glucose between cheek and gum.
Tongue depressor method
Use depressor to place glucose in mouth.
Severe hypoglycemia
Can lead to brain cell death.
Patient reassessment
Continuous monitoring for condition changes.
Emergency protocols
Guidelines for contacting advanced life support.
Glucose gel
Heavy sugar gel for rapid glucose delivery.
Diabetic patients
Individuals with diabetes requiring careful glucose management.
Glutose
A trade name for oral glucose.
Insta-Glucose
Another trade name for oral glucose.
Altered mental status
Change in consciousness or awareness level.
Diabetes history
Previous diagnosis of diabetes requiring medication.
Blood glucose level
Measurement of glucose concentration in blood.
Swallowing ability
Patient’s capacity to safely ingest medication.
Contraindications
Conditions preventing safe administration of medication.
Unresponsive patient
A patient who does not respond to stimuli.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose level requiring treatment.
Medication form
Oral glucose is a viscous gel.
Dosage
Typical dosage is one tube of gel.
Medical direction
Guidance from a medical professional for treatment.
On-line order
Direct consultation with medical direction before administration.
Off-line medical direction
Authority to administer without direct consultation.
Airway monitoring
Observation to prevent obstruction during administration.
Administration methods
Two ways: cheek and gum or tongue depressor.
Choking risk
Potential danger of obstructing airway with gel.
Absorption enhancement
Lightly massaging the area increases glucose uptake.
Blood glucose reassessment
Evaluation of glucose levels after medication administration.
Oxygen administration
Providing oxygen at high concentration if needed.
Protocol requirements
Local guidelines for administering oral glucose.
Criteria for administration
Three conditions must be met for oral glucose use.
Seizure preparedness
Be ready to suction if patient seizes.
Altered Mental Status
A condition where a patient shows confusion or disorientation.
Open Airway
Ensure unobstructed breathing passage for the patient.
Suctioning
Removing obstructions from the airway as needed.
Oxygenation
Providing adequate oxygen to the patient.
Lateral Recumbent Position
Patient lying on their side for safety.
Transport
Moving the patient to a medical facility.
Oral Glucose
Sugar administered to raise blood glucose levels.
Intranasal Glucagon
Glucagon administered through the nasal mucosa.
Glycogenolysis
Conversion of glycogen to glucose in the liver.
Gluconeogenesis
Conversion of noncarbohydrates to glucose in the liver.
Blood Glucose Level (BGL)
Measurement of glucose concentration in the blood.
Mucosal Atomizer Device (MAD)
Device used for intranasal medication administration.
Intramuscular (IM) Administration
Injecting medication directly into muscle tissue.
Subcutaneous (SQ) Administration
Injecting medication into the tissue layer between skin and muscle.
Severe Altered Mental Status
Significant confusion requiring immediate medical attention.
Hyperglycemia
Condition of high blood glucose levels.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Severe complication of diabetes with high glucose and ketones.
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome (HHS)
Severe hyperglycemia without ketosis, common in type 2 diabetes.
Insulin Deficiency
Lack of insulin leading to high blood glucose.
Diabetic Patient Assessment
Evaluating for infection or medication noncompliance in hyperglycemia.
Onset of Action
Time taken for a drug to start working.
Emergency Care for DKA
Immediate treatment needed for high blood glucose and ketones.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
A serious diabetes complication from insulin deficiency.
Insulin
Hormone that facilitates glucose entry into cells.
Glucose
Simple sugar used for energy by cells.
Ketones
By-products of fat metabolism, causing acidosis.
Acidosis
Condition of increased acidity in the blood.
Dehydration
Excessive loss of body water, often from urination.
Polyuria
Excessive urination due to high glucose levels.
Polydipsia
Excessive thirst resulting from dehydration.
Polyphagia
Excessive hunger due to lack of glucose in cells.
Kussmaul respirations
Rapid, deep breathing pattern in acidosis.
Altered mental status
Cognitive impairment due to dehydration and acidosis.
Electrolyte imbalance
Disruption of normal electrolyte levels, affecting heart.
Urinary tract infection
Infection that can exacerbate DKA in patients.
Thiazide diuretics
Medications that can increase blood glucose levels.
Dilantin
Medication that may affect insulin function.
Steroids
Medications that can raise blood glucose levels.
Stress response
Physiological reaction that can worsen hyperglycemia.
Fruity breath odor
Characteristic smell from ketone production in DKA.
Positive orthostatic tilt test
Indicates dehydration by measuring blood pressure changes.
Poor skin turgor
Indicator of dehydration, especially in elderly.
Nausea and vomiting
Symptoms often due to electrolyte disturbances.
Muscle cramps
Result from electrolyte imbalances in DKA.
Abdominal pain
Common symptom in children with DKA.
Warm, dry, flushed skin
Physical sign of dehydration in DKA. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Kussmaul respirations
Deep, rapid breathing to reduce body acid.
Carbon dioxide
Gas that forms carbonic acid in the body.
Fruity odor
Breath smell from ketones, resembling acetone.
Altered mental status
Cognitive impairment due to dehydration and acid.
Hyperventilation
Increased breathing rate to expel carbon dioxide.
Dehydration
Excessive loss of body fluids, common in DKA.
Signs of DKA
Dry skin, fruity breath, and altered mental state.
Blood glucose level
Elevated in DKA, often exceeding normal limits.
Emergency care for DKA
Focus on rehydration and lowering blood glucose.
Insulin therapy
Administered to reduce blood glucose in DKA.
Patient assessment
Evaluate signs and symptoms of diabetic emergencies.
Acid load
Excess acid in the body, affecting function.
Ketone bodies
Acids produced during fat metabolism in DKA.
Acute effects
Rapid onset symptoms, unlike DKA’s gradual progression.
Tachycardia
Increased heart rate, common in DKA.
Emergency medical technician (EMT)
First responders providing initial care for DKA.
Advanced life support (ALS)
Higher level of care, including IV fluids.
Oral hypoglycemic agents
Medications used to manage blood glucose levels.
Vomiting in DKA
Common symptom indicating gastrointestinal distress.
Abdominal pain
Frequent complaint in DKA patients.
Patient airway management
Crucial first step in emergency DKA care.
Poor perfusion
Inadequate blood flow to tissues.
Shock
Critical condition with insufficient blood circulation.
Supplemental oxygen
Additional oxygen provided to maintain adequate levels.
Oxygen saturation
Percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen.
Nasal cannula
Device delivering supplemental oxygen via nostrils.
Liter flow
Rate of oxygen delivery measured in liters per minute.
Nonrebreather mask
Oxygen mask preventing rebreathing of exhaled air.
Positive pressure ventilation
Assisted breathing using mechanical devices.
Blood glucose level (BGL)
Measurement of glucose concentration in blood.
Oral glucose
Glucose administered by mouth for hypoglycemia.
Hyperglycemic condition
State of elevated blood glucose levels.
Hypoglycemic condition
State of low blood glucose levels.
Brain cell damage
Cellular injury due to lack of glucose.
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome (HHS)
Severe hyperglycemia causing dehydration and osmotic diuresis.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Acidosis due to ketone production from fat metabolism.
Hyperosmolar effect
Fluid shift from cells to blood due to glucose.
Type 2 diabetes
Diabetes characterized by insulin resistance.
Insulin secretion
Release of insulin hormone from the pancreas.
Dehydration
Loss of body fluids leading to electrolyte imbalance.
Glucose meter reading
Measurement of blood glucose using a device.
Intracranial problems
Conditions affecting the brain’s structure or function.
Glucose administration protocols
Guidelines for safe glucose delivery in emergencies.
Neurological outcome
Result of brain function following medical treatment.
HHS
Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome, severe dehydration condition.
Nonketotic
Refers to absence of significant ketone production.
Blood Glucose Level (BGL)
Measure of glucose concentration in blood.
Glycogenolysis
Liver process converting glycogen to glucose.
Dehydration
Loss of body water, leading to severe symptoms.
Altered Mental Status
Cognitive impairment due to dehydration effects.
Tachycardia
Increased heart rate, common in HHS patients.
Polydipsia
Excessive thirst, a symptom of HHS.
Oliguria
Scanty urine output, often seen in dehydration.
Seizures
Neurological events more common in HHS than hypoglycemia.
Comorbid Factors
Preexisting conditions influencing HHS severity.
Positive Orthostatic Tilt Test
Indicates blood pressure changes upon standing.
Poor Skin Turgor
Skin elasticity loss, sign of dehydration.
Dry Oral Mucosa
Dryness in mouth, indicative of fluid loss.
Dry, Warm Skin
Skin condition often observed in dehydrated patients.
Nausea and Vomiting
Gastrointestinal symptoms associated with HHS.
Kussmaul Respirations
Deep, labored breathing absent in HHS.
Fruity Odor
Breath characteristic of DKA, not present in HHS.
Emergency Medical Care
Similar protocols for HHS and DKA management.
Insulin Availability
Some insulin present, allowing limited glucose entry.
Glucose Urination
High glucose levels lead to increased urine output.
Mortality Rate
High risk of death due to severe dehydration.
Patent Airway
Clear and open airway for effective breathing.
Oxygenation
Sufficient oxygen supply to body tissues.
Supplemental Oxygen
Additional oxygen provided when levels are low.
Nasal Cannula
Device delivering oxygen through the nose.
Titrated Flow
Adjusting oxygen flow to achieve target saturation.
Nonrebreather Mask
Mask providing high concentration oxygen to patients.
Positive Pressure Ventilation
Assisted breathing using a mechanical device.
Oral Glucose
Sugar administered by mouth to raise blood sugar.
Altered Mental Status
Change in awareness or cognitive function.
Diabetic Emergency
Acute condition related to diabetes management.
Scene Size-Up
Initial assessment of the emergency scene.
Primary Assessment
First evaluation of the patient’s condition.
Medical Alert Tags
Identification indicating a patient’s medical history.
Insulin Pump
Device delivering continuous insulin to diabetic patients.
SAMPLE History
Method for gathering patient history: Signs, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, Events.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose level causing symptoms.
Rehydration
Restoration of body fluids, often needed in emergencies.
Advanced Life Support
Higher level of medical care for critical patients.
Diabetes Mellitus
Chronic condition affecting blood sugar regulation.
Prescription Medications
Drugs prescribed for managing diabetes.
Documentation
Recording patient information for medical personnel.
Regular insulin
Short-acting insulin for blood glucose control.
Insulin aspart
Rapid-acting insulin, brand name NovoLog.
Insulin glulisine
Rapid-acting insulin, brand name Apidra.
Insulin lispro
Rapid-acting insulin, brand name Humalog.
Insulin isophane
Intermediate-acting insulin, Humulin N or Novolin N.
Insulin degludec
Long-acting insulin, brand name Tresiba.
Insulin detemir
Long-acting insulin, brand name Levemir.
Insulin glargine
Long-acting insulin, brands Lantus and Toujeo.
NovoLog Mix 70/30
70% insulin aspart protamine, 30% insulin aspart.
Humalog Mix 75/25
75% insulin lispro protamine, 25% insulin lispro.
Humalog Mix 50/50
50% insulin lispro protamine, 50% insulin lispro.
Humulin 70/30
70% human insulin NPH, 30% regular human insulin.
Novolin 70/30
70% human insulin NPH, 30% regular human insulin.
Ryzodeg
Combination of insulin degludec and insulin aspart.
Pramlintide
Amylin analog for diabetes management.
Acarbose
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor for Type 2 diabetes.
Metformin
First-line oral medication for Type 2 diabetes.
Sitagliptin
DPP-4 inhibitor for blood sugar control.
Dulaglutide
GLP-1 receptor agonist for Type 2 diabetes.
Empagliflozin
SGLT2 inhibitor for glucose excretion.
Glipizide
Sulfonylurea that increases insulin secretion.
Altered Mental Status
Change in cognitive function due to various causes.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood glucose level causing altered mental state.
Epinephrine Release
Hormone causing symptoms like tachycardia and sweating.
Tachycardia
Elevated heart rate often linked to stress or hypoglycemia.
Pale Skin
Skin appearance due to vasoconstriction or shock.
Cool, Clammy Skin
Skin condition from hypoglycemia or epinephrine release.
Intoxicated Appearance
Behavior resembling intoxication due to altered mental state.
Seizure Activity
Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, can occur in hypoglycemia.
Bizarre Behavior
Uncharacteristic actions often seen in altered mental status.
Combativeness
Aggressive behavior possibly resulting from confusion or distress.
Anxiousness
Feeling of unease, common in hypoglycemic patients.
Restlessness
Inability to remain still, often due to discomfort.
Insulin Injection Bruising
Marks indicating insulin administration, potential site for complications.
Blood Glucose Level (BGL)
Measurement of glucose in blood, critical for diabetes management.
Oropharyngeal Airway
Device used to maintain open airway in unconscious patients.
Nasopharyngeal Airway
Tube inserted through the nose to secure airway.
Positive Pressure Ventilation
Assisted breathing technique for inadequate respiratory function.
Nasal Cannula
Device delivering supplemental oxygen through the nose.
Nonrebreather Mask
Oxygen delivery mask providing high concentration of oxygen.
Lateral Recumbent Position
Side-lying position to reduce aspiration risk.
Reassessment
Ongoing evaluation of patient’s condition after treatment.
Oral Glucose Administration
Providing glucose by mouth to treat hypoglycemia.
Glucose Meter
Device used to measure blood glucose levels.
Time for Improvement
Duration before effects of oral glucose are noticeable.
Blood Glucose Level
Measurement of glucose concentration in blood.
Mental Status
Patient’s awareness and cognitive function level.
Stroke
Sudden loss of brain function due to blood flow.
Oral Glucose
Sugar administered to raise blood glucose levels.
Patent Airway
Open airway allowing unobstructed breathing.
Adequate Breathing
Sufficient respiratory effort for oxygen exchange.
Oxygenation
Process of delivering oxygen to body tissues.
Emergency Care Protocol
Guidelines for managing acute medical conditions.
Assessment Findings
Results from evaluating a patient’s health status.
Hypoglycemia
Condition of low blood glucose levels.
Morbidity
Health complications resulting from a disease.
Glucose Monitoring
Regular checking of blood sugar levels.
Symptomatic Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia presenting with clinical symptoms.
Inclusion Criteria
Conditions qualifying a patient for treatment.
Altered Level of Consciousness
Change in awareness or responsiveness.
Stroke Symptoms
Signs indicating possible stroke occurrence.
Seizure
Sudden uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.
Alcohol Ingestion
Consumption of alcoholic beverages affecting health.
Metabolic Disorders
Conditions disrupting normal metabolism processes.
Insulin Pump
Device delivering continuous insulin to patients.
Tachycardia
Abnormally rapid heart rate over 100 bpm.
Hypotension
Abnormally low blood pressure.
GCS
Glasgow Coma Scale for assessing consciousness.
Dextrose Solution
Sugar solution used to treat hypoglycemia.
Glucagon
Hormone used to raise blood glucose levels.
Adult Dosing
Medication dosage guidelines for adults.
Pediatric Dosing
Medication dosage guidelines for children.
Reassess Patient
Evaluate patient’s condition after initial treatment.
Euglycemia
Normal blood glucose levels.
Transport Protocol
Guidelines for patient transport after treatment.
Legal Guardian Consent
Approval from a responsible adult for treatment.
Co-morbid Symptoms
Additional health issues present alongside primary condition.
Carbohydrate Meal
Food rich in carbohydrates to restore energy.
Hyperglycemia
Elevated blood glucose levels causing various symptoms.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Severe complication of diabetes with metabolic acidosis.
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS)
Severe hyperglycemia without significant ketoacidosis.
Patient Care Goals
Limit morbidity through glucose monitoring and hydration.
Inclusion Criteria
Conditions for patient eligibility for hyperglycemia care.
Altered Level of Consciousness
Change in awareness affecting responsiveness and cognition.
Stroke Symptoms
Neurological signs like hemiparesis or dysarthria.
Seizure
Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Signs include polyuria, polydipsia, weakness, dizziness.
History of Diabetes
Previous diagnosis of diabetes with current symptoms.
Exclusion Criteria
Conditions that disqualify a patient from treatment.
Cardiac Arrest
Condition where the heart stops beating effectively.
Blood Glucose Level Monitoring
Checking glucose levels to assess hyperglycemia severity.
Secondary Survey
Comprehensive assessment for symptoms related to glucose levels.
Glasgow Coma Score (GCS)
Scale to assess consciousness level in patients.
Focal Neurologic Deficit
Localized neurological impairment indicating brain issues.
Lead EKG
Electrocardiogram to check heart’s electrical activity.
Volume Expansion
Administering fluids to increase blood volume.
Cerebral Edema
Swelling of the brain, potentially life-threatening.
Hyponatremia
Low sodium levels in the blood, can be dangerous.
Asymptomatic Hyperglycemia
High blood sugar without noticeable symptoms.
Kussmaul Respirations
Rapid, deep breathing associated with metabolic acidosis.
