Hypoglycaemia Flashcards
1
Q
Definition
A
Blood glucose level less than 4mmol/L
2
Q
Cause
A
Side effect of insulin therapy and other diabetes medication
3
Q
Compensatory mechanisms in the body to deal with hypoglycaemia
A
Adrenaline
Glucagon
Cortisol
GH
4
Q
Clinical features
A
Pallor Sweating Weakness Tremor Palpitations Anxiety Confusion Nausea Hunger Numbness in fingers and lips
5
Q
Severe - clinical features
A
Seizures
Slurred speech
Coma
6
Q
Management - for patients who can swallow
A
15-20g of quick acting carbohydrate (glucojuice)
Recheck blood glucose level after 15 mins
Repeat if still hypoglycaemic
Once normal blood glucose levels, give some biscuits
7
Q
Management - for patient who is drowsy/confused
A
Glucose gel squeezed into mouth
Recheck blood glucose levels after 15 mins
8
Q
Management - for patient who is unconscious
A
ABCDE
IV glucose
SC or IM glucagon
Re-check blood glucose levels after 15 mins
