Diabetic Emergencies: BLS Approach to Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. More than 30 million Americans suffer from this condition, which can cause symptoms ranging from frequent urination, abnormal thirst, and poor wound healing to dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. To prepare for these potential diabetic emergencies, health care providers must understand how to provide Basic Life Support (BLS) measures before obtaining advanced medical help. Amerimed CPR offers comprehensive BLS Classes in San Diego to ensure that healthcare professionals know how to appropriately respond when a patient is experiencing a diabetic emergency.
The two most common diabetic emergencies are hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia refers to excessively high levels of glucose in the bloodstream, while hypoglycemia occurs when there is too little glucose. Both conditions require quick attention, as they can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Fortunately, those who have received proper training in BLS Classes in San Diego will be prepared to take appropriate action.
When responding to a patient with hyperglycemia, the main priority should be to lower their glucose level. This is typically achieved through administering insulin or oral medications, which may necessitate assistance from another healthcare provider. In some cases, however, BLS responders can help by carefully monitoring the patient’s blood glucose levels using glucometers or other diagnostic tools.
Similarly, responding to a patient experiencing hypoglycemia involves ensuring their safety and quickly restoring their blood sugar level. The most common way to do this is by providing oral carbohydrate sources such as fruit juices or candy. Healthcare providers can also use glucagon injections or intravenous dextrose infusions if needed.
Regardless of the situation, it is important for BLS responders to observe safety protocols and remain calm during a medical emergency. Those who have completed Amerimed CPR’s BLS Classes in San Diego will be familiar with the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic episodes and be able to take appropriate measures to mitigate them. They should also recognize the importance of working collaboratively with other healthcare providers in order to coordinate an effective response.
In addition to helping patients manage diabetes-related emergencies, healthcare providers who have taken BLS Courses in San Diego will gain valuable knowledge about how to prevent such episodes in the future. By implementing lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, increasing physical activity, eating nutritious foods, and taking medication as directed, individuals with diabetes can lower their risk of going into diabetic shock.
While diabetes poses serious risks to health, healthcare professionals who have undergone formal training in BLS Courses in San Diego can play an important role in mitigating them. At Amerimed CPR, we offer comprehensive courses that teach healthcare providers how to correctly assess a patient presenting with signs of diabetic shock and respond accordingly. Our classes are designed to give you the confidence to manage any diabetic emergency with ease.r
