IV Glucose Flashcards
1
Q
IV Glucose Introduction
A
A hypertonic crystalloid solution that provides a readily available source of energy (Glucose)
Onset within 1 minute
Contains 100 mg glucose anhydrous/ml
2
Q
IV Glucose Indications
A
Demonstrated hypoglycaemia where oral glucose administration is inappropriate in:
- Altered conscious state in known diabetic or of otherwise unknown cause where blood glucose level is below 4mmol/L.
- Cardiac arrest, only if hypoglycaemia is suspected as a contributory cause of the arrest, not an early indication.
3
Q
IV Glucose Contraindications
A
Not to be used if there is no patent IV access
4
Q
IV Glucose Precautions / Notes
A
- Patients should ideally be cannulated with a large gauge cannula into a large vein, with patency confirmed with a free flowing bolus (>20ml) of 0.9% normal saline, before administering glucose 10% using a 20ml syringe via the injection port, titrated to effect. Administration via an IO should utilise a 20ml syringe and a three way tap.
- High concentration of IV glucose may aggravate dehydration due to its hypertonicity whereby it draws water from the cells.
- IV glucose is corrosive and IV patency must be ensured before administration.
- Careful titration of glucose in head injured patients is vital as glucose leaking into CNS tissue will aggravate the injury, resulting in cerebral oedema.
- Monitor blood glucose level carefully; beware of drop in level again after the patient has recovered.
- Even if fully recovered, patients should be encouraged to be transported to a medical facility to ensure effective follow up and review.
- IO administration is only as a last resort after all other avenues have been exhausted and the patient needs lifesaving glucose.
- Do not wait on scene for glucose to take effect.
- Note that repeat doses of Glucose 10% (Intravenous) may need to be repeated to achieve normoglycaemia.
5
Q
4 IV Glucose Special Considerations (Side Effects)
A
Hyperglycaemia
Diuresis
Tissue necrosis
Thrombophlebitis
