Hypoglycemia Emergency

Recognize symptoms: trembling, sweating, confusion. Stop procedure immediately. Give 15g fast-acting carbohydrate (glucose tablets, juice, gel). Wait 15 minutes, repeat if needed.

Step 1: Recognize Symptoms

Patient reports feeling shaky, dizzy, or confused. Visible trembling, sweating, or altered mental status.

Signs to watch for:

• Trembling or shakiness
• Sweating
• Confusion or disorientation
• Anxiety or irritability
• Rapid heartbeat
• Pale complexion

Step 2: Stop Procedure

Cease all dental treatment immediately. Position patient upright or semi-recumbent. Assess consciousness level.

Step 3: Administer Quick-Acting Carbohydrate

Give 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate:

• 3-4 glucose tablets
• 1 tube glucose gel
• 4 oz juice (orange, apple)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 6-7 hard candies

Step 4: Wait and Monitor

Wait 15 minutes and recheck blood glucose if possible. Monitor symptoms closely. Patient should feel better within 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

If blood glucose still < 100 mg/dL or symptoms persist, repeat step 3. Continue until normalized.

Step 6: Follow-up

Once stable, provide complex carbohydrate (crackers, peanut butter). Contact patient physician if severe. Reschedule treatment.

• Ask diabetic patients about their last meal and insulin dose
• Schedule diabetic patients in the morning
• Keep emergency glucose available in the operatory
• Train all staff on hypoglycemia recognition and treatment
• Have emergency contact information for diabetic patients