Hypoglycemia Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is hypoglycemia?

High blood sugar

Normal blood sugar

Low blood sugar (correct)

High insulin levels

What happens in the hypoglycemic state?

Too much insulin in proportion to glucose in the blood, blood glucose levels less than 70, neuroendocrine hormones levels are raised, autonomic nervous system is activated.

What causes hypoglycemia? (Select all that apply)

Delaying time of eating (correct)

Too much insulin or oral agents (correct)

Too little food (correct)

High glucose levels rising slowly

Too much exercise (correct)

What are some common manifestations of hypoglycemia?

Shakiness, palpitations, nervousness, diaphoresis, anxiety, hunger, pallor. Signup and view all the answers

What symptoms indicate altered mental functioning in a person experiencing hypoglycemia?

Difficulty speaking, visual changes, stupor, confusion. Signup and view all the answers

If hypoglycemia is left untreated, what can it lead to? (Select all that apply)

Coma Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment rule of 15 for hypoglycemia?

<ol> <li>15 grams of simple carbohydrate, 2) check glucose in 15 minutes, 3) repeat if glucose does not raise.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

What simple carbohydrates would you give to a person to raise their glucose levels?

Fruit juices or a Coke. Signup and view all the answers

If glucose levels are still low after using the treatment rule of 15, what is the next option?

Give sugar IV, DW5 - dextrose in water 5%. Signup and view all the answers

If the patient is unable to swallow juice, what can you do instead of giving an IV push of dextrose?

Subcutaneous or IM injection of Glucagon 1mg. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hypoglycemia Overview

Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, specifically below 70 mg/dL.
Symptoms often include "Cold and Clammy, Need Some Candy," indicating the immediate need for glucose.

Pathophysiology

Occurs due to an excess of insulin relative to blood glucose.
Neuroendocrine hormone levels rise and the autonomic nervous system compensates.

Causes

Main causes include too much insulin or oral agents, insufficient food intake, delaying meals, excessive exercise, and rapid drops in high glucose levels.

Common Manifestations

Typical symptoms are shakiness, palpitations, nervousness, diaphoresis (sweating), anxiety, hunger, and pallor.

Altered Mental Functioning

Hypoglycemia can lead to confusion, difficulty speaking, visual changes, and stupor.

Potential Complications

Untreated hypoglycemia can result in loss of consciousness, seizures, coma, or even death.

Treatment Protocol - Rule of 15

If symptoms arise, administer 15 grams of simple carbohydrates.
Recheck glucose levels in 15 minutes, repeating the process up to three times if necessary.

Recommended Simple Carbohydrates

Effective options include fruit juices or regular soda.
Foods containing fat should be avoided, as they hinder sugar absorption.

Next Step for Persistent Low Glucose

If glucose remains low after following the Rule of 15, administer IV dextrose (5% dextrose in water) or 50% dextrose via IV push.

Alternative Intervention

If the patient is unable to swallow juice, administer a subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of Glucagon (1 mg).
Ensure the patient is turned on their side to prevent aspiration, as glucagon may induce vomiting.

Description

Test your knowledge about hypoglycemia with these flashcards. Learn key terms, definitions, and the physiological changes associated with low blood sugar. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals alike!