Which action is correct for a conscious hypoglycemic event in a diabetic?

Which action is correct for a conscious hypoglycemic event in a diabetic?

• A. Give sugar candy or a sugary drink
• B. Give insulin
• C. Provide water only
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (A)

When someone with diabetes has hypoglycemia but is still awake and able to swallow, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly with a fast-acting carbohydrate. Sugar candy or a sugary drink is ideal because it provides glucose that is rapidly absorbed, helping to reverse symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, or confusion promptly. Giving insulin would worsen the situation, and water alone won’t raise the glucose level. Doing nothing risks the person slipping into more severe hypoglycemia or losing consciousness. After giving the sugar, check the blood glucose again in about 15 minutes. If still low, repeat the fast-acting carbohydrate and recheck. Once normal, have a small meal or snack to stabilize levels. If the person cannot swallow or loses consciousness, seek emergency help immediately and administer glucagon if it’s available.

When someone with diabetes has hypoglycemia but is still awake and able to swallow, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly with a fast-acting carbohydrate. Sugar candy or a sugary drink is ideal because it provides glucose that is rapidly absorbed, helping to reverse symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, or confusion promptly. Giving insulin would worsen the situation, and water alone won’t raise the glucose level. Doing nothing risks the person slipping into more severe hypoglycemia or losing consciousness.

After giving the sugar, check the blood glucose again in about 15 minutes. If still low, repeat the fast-acting carbohydrate and recheck. Once normal, have a small meal or snack to stabilize levels. If the person cannot swallow or loses consciousness, seek emergency help immediately and administer glucagon if it’s available.