01
Front
What blood glucose level defines hypoglycemia?
Back
Hypoglycemia is a blood glucose level below \(3.9\ \text{mmol/L}).
Free Online Flashcard Deck
3 Hypoglycemia Free Online FlashCards
Study 3 Hypoglycemia with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
12 cards
02
Front
How should an alert person who can swallow safely treat a low?
Back
If the person is alert and can swallow safely, give about 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets, glucose gel, or juice.
03
Front
What should you avoid giving someone who cannot swallow reliably?
Back
Do not give food, liquid, or gel by mouth to someone who cannot swallow reliably; it may be unsafe.
04
Front
What should follow glucagon once the person can swallow safely?
Back
Give fast-acting carbohydrate only once the person is awake and can swallow safely, then offer a longer-lasting carbohydrate-containing snack or meal.
05
Front
What should happen after repeated or severe hypoglycemia?
Back
Repeated or severe lows should prompt a review of the diabetes treatment plan with a healthcare professional.
06
Front
What are common symptoms of hypoglycemia?
Back
Common symptoms include shakiness, sweating, hunger, irritability, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, and confusion.
07
Front
How is severe hypoglycemia defined?
Back
Severe hypoglycemia is defined by the person needing help, not by a specific glucose number.
08
Front
When should glucose be rechecked after fast-acting carbohydrate?
Back
Recheck blood glucose after 15 minutes.
09
Front
What if glucose is still below 70 mg/dL after 15 minutes?
Back
If glucose remains below 70 mg/dL, repeat the fast-acting carbohydrate treatment and recheck in another 15 minutes.
10
Front
Why is chocolate not the best first treatment for a low?
Back
Chocolate is not the best initial treatment because its fat can slow glucose absorption.
11
Front
When is prescribed glucagon used during hypoglycemia?
Back
Use prescribed glucagon if available when the person cannot safely take carbohydrates by mouth.
12
Front
What should you do for an unalert person with suspected hypoglycemia?
Back
Call emergency services for a person who is unalert or cannot safely take carbohydrates by mouth.
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