hypoglycaemia Flashcards
what is hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, has a variety of causes, but most often occurs as a result of insulin therapy or other medications in patients with diabetes.
when is a person hypoglycaemic
< 70 mg/dL
what are the symptoms of hypoglycaemia
hunger, sweating, and tachycardia, as well as neuroglycopenic symptoms such as confusion, behavioral changes
when should a person be checked for hypoglycaemia
patient’s mental status should prompt immediate fingerstick blood glucose measurement
what happens if hypoglycaemia is not treated
brain damage
what is the treatment of hypoglycaemia
Glucose is the preferred treatment
if the patients are consciousness what should be given
Patients who are conscious should receive a fast-acting carbohydrate such as glucose tablets, candy, or fruit juice
what is administered to unresponsive patients
Intravenous dextrose or intramuscular glucagon is administered to unresponsive patients.
what masks symptoms of hypoglycaemia
beta blocokers
