Hypoglycemia

HYPOGYCEMIA (Insulin Shock)


blood sugar falls below 50 mg/dL
- caused by too much insulin, too little food, or excessive physical activity
- may result from delayed meals, exercise, or vomiting
- rapid onset
- findings of insulin shock
- diaphoresis; cold, clammy skin
- anxiety, tremor, slurred speech
- weakness
- nausea
- mental confusion, personality changes, altered LOC
- headache


management of hypoglycemia

- if client is conscious, give oral simple sugar: hard candy, honey, Karo syrup, jelly, cola, juice
- if unconscious: give one mg glucagon IM, IV or subcutaneous (subQ); or 20 to 50 mL 50% dextrose IV push