If a diabetic patient shows symptoms of hypoglycemia and you have checked their blood glucose, what is the appropriate nursing action?

If a diabetic patient shows symptoms of hypoglycemia and you have checked their blood glucose, what is the appropriate nursing action?

• A. Administer another dose of insulin IV
• B. Give them a carbohydrate snack
• C. Withhold food and recheck in one hour
• D. Administer a large meal without monitoring glucose

Answer: (B)

When hypoglycemia is present, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly while the patient can safely swallow. Give a fast-acting carbohydrate about 15–20 grams (for example, fruit juice, regular soda, glucose tablets, or a sugar packet dissolved in water). Recheck the blood glucose in about 15 minutes and repeat the dose if still low. Once level is normal, offer a small snack or meal to maintain it. Do not administer insulin or withhold food; giving a large meal without confirming glucose can lead to further problems. If the patient cannot swallow or is unconscious, use IV dextrose or glucagon instead.

When hypoglycemia is present, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly while the patient can safely swallow. Give a fast-acting carbohydrate about 15–20 grams (for example, fruit juice, regular soda, glucose tablets, or a sugar packet dissolved in water). Recheck the blood glucose in about 15 minutes and repeat the dose if still low. Once level is normal, offer a small snack or meal to maintain it. Do not administer insulin or withhold food; giving a large meal without confirming glucose can lead to further problems. If the patient cannot swallow or is unconscious, use IV dextrose or glucagon instead.