If a diabetic patient shows symptoms of hypoglycemia and you have checked their blood glucose, what is the appropriate nursing action?

• A. Administer another dose of insulin IV
• B. Give them a carbohydrate snack
• C. Withhold food and recheck in one hour
• D. Administer a large meal without monitoring glucose

Answer: (B)

When hypoglycemia is present, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly while the patient can safely swallow. Give a fast-acting carbohydrate about 15–20 grams (for example, fruit juice, regular soda, glucose tablets, or a sugar packet dissolved in water). Recheck the blood glucose in about 15 minutes and repeat the dose if still low. Once level is normal, offer a small snack or meal to maintain it. Do not administer insulin or withhold food; giving a large meal without confirming glucose can lead to further problems. If the patient cannot swallow or is unconscious, use IV dextrose or glucagon instead.