Low blood sugar is a medical emergency.It can happen when someone gives themselves too muchinsulin, skips a meal, or exercises too heavily.It is possible to save a person's life if they know how to give a diabetes drug.A conscious person should be given an equivalent.The person needs an injection if they are unconscious.
Step 1: If the person has 3 tablets, give them to them.
These are available without a prescription.There are three tablets that can be taken with the patient.There are also 4 tablets that can be used.The gel may be available at some drugstores.Carefully read the label to determine the correct amount to give the patient.
Step 2: If the tablets are unavailable, give 15 grams of carbs.
You should choose the food or drink carefully if you want to help the patient.Four ounces of fruit juice is equal to half a can of a regular soda.
Step 3: Wait 15 minutes before testing a person.
It's a good idea to use a standard diabetes meter.The reading on the meter should be over 70mg/dl.If the blood sugar level is too low, repeat the treatment and test again.
Step 4: A person should eat a snack.
Give the person something with a lot of food in it.They will be able to prevent their blood sugar from falling again.The item should be counted as a snack, not a meal.Graham crackers, Saltines, and a half sandwich with meat are good choices.
Step 5: Someone has a supply of glucagon.
The person will need an injection if they are not conscious.This should be done by a family member or friend who knows how to give an injection if you are not a medical professional.If no one is able to give the injection, call an emergency number.Glucagon needs a prescription.If you are a person with diabetes, you should show someone how to give the shot and make sure they know that you have a prescription.
Step 6: The emergency glucagon kit should have an expired date.
Take out the contents of the kit if it's still usable.Carefully follow the directions on the box to mix the glucagon powder and liquid.Don't give expired medication.Contact emergency assistance.The glucagon should be kept at room temperature.
Step 7: The person should be on their side.
The person may vomit after being injected with glucagon.Turn them on their side to keep them from suffocating.
Step 8: The injection site needs to be clean.
A cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol can be used.The upper arm is an easily accessible spot.It should be dry for a few seconds.
Step 9: Ready the injection.
You can check for bubbles with your finger.Push the plunger to get out of the air.To pinch a fold of skin, hold it in one hand.With your fingers off the plunger, hold the syringe close to the fold.
Step 10: Attach the needle.
Put the needle in the injection site.It can be injected into the body.Give the amount stated on the kit's bottle if you push the plunger in completely.For small children and thin adults, a 45 degree angle is needed.This will prevent the injection from entering the muscle.
Step 11: Slowly remove the needle.
It must be removed at the same angle it was inserted.The cover should be over the used needle.As soon as possible, dispose of the used needle in a sharp disposal box or a hard container with a lid.The one-handed needle recapping method can be used to prevent accidental needle sticks.Place the cap on a flat surface and use one hand to insert the needle.When you hear the "click," push down against the cap.
Step 12: Wait for the person to awaken.
Glucagon should act quickly.The person should wake up after receiving the injection.Immediately after giving the injection, call the emergency services.The person's blood sugar needs to be evaluated by a doctor before Glucagon can be used.If the person vomits, be prepared to clean up.
Step 13: The person should get something to eat.
The person should be able to swallow by the time the injection is over.It's a good idea to give them something with a lot of calories in it.