Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is an excessive insulin-to-blood glucose ratio linked to excessive use of hypoglycemic agents. This is cause by decrease food intake, increase physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption and renal failure. It can occur in clients with type one and type two diabetes.

Assessment findings show that when a client is experiencing hypoglycemia, manifested by cool, moist skin and pallor. Increase in heart rate, tremors in the extremities, paresthesias and affects the level of consciousness like confusion. A diagnostic finding shows that serum blood glucose level is less than 70 mg/dl.

For the management of hypoglycemia, monitor blood glucose levels. Increase intake of sources of glucose like oral glucose that found in a fruit juice or cola. Two to three teaspoon of sugar or honey, commercially prepared glucose tablets and hard sugar candies. Long-acting carbohydrates to prevent subsequent episodes of hypoglycemia. Better carry simple sugar at all times.

Fluid and nutritional balance is important, health care providers should assess intake and output accurately because fluid-volume deficit and fluid-volume overload can occur anytime. Intravenous fluid should always be correct to help lessen the condition. Weight of the client is important to take note because this will serve as the baseline data. A nutritional modification was indicated to maintain the normal metabolic system work properly.

For clients who have endocrine problems, they must wear an identification bracelet because they are prone to injuries like seizure. Attack can occur anytime and anywhere. When performing their activities of daily living they will need assistance because of easy fatigability. A danger sign of hypoglycemia needs to be reported immediately because this is a life threatening condition. If a client is experiencing this signs and symptoms like sudden changes in weight, numbness, paresthesia, tetany, extreme thirst, fever and palpitations.

For clients who have already diabetes, explain and demonstrate to the client on how to administer insulin. Best site is in the abdomen because faster absorption happens. The diet of the client must be low fat, low- cholesterol, low-sodium and high fiber diet. The client must follow consistent meal schedules and food amount. Increase in carbohydrate recommended to avoid hypoglycemia.

Teach the client for proper foot care and protection. Inspects his feet daily for redness, blisters and ulcerations by using a mirror to check the bottoms of the feet and wear well-fitting closed-toe shoes. If wounds will occur, wash the wounds with mild soap and water then apply antibiotic to prevent gangrene formation. Excessive intake of alcohol and smoking should be stop because the clients will be immunosuppressed and more prone to infections.

An annual ophthalmologic examination was done to detect the presence of sugar in the eyes because this is an indication of progressing hypoglycemia plus diabetes.