Diabetic Emergencies: Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia in the Workplace

Diabetic emergencies present as either too much or too little blood sugar. Level 2 attendants should be able to tell them apart and respond appropriately.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Onset in minutes. Shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability. If the patient can swallow safely, give oral glucose (juice, sugar tabs, glucose gel).

Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

Onset over hours or days. Thirst, frequent urination, fruity breath, deep rapid breathing. Usually needs medical care, not immediate field treatment.

When in doubt

If you cannot tell which it is and the patient can safely swallow, give glucose. It fixes low, does not worsen high meaningfully. See patient assessment.

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