Blood sugars

[kitkat83]

I was wondering what creative ideas people had to raise pts blood sugars when IVs aren't possible. I have heard of pudding mixed with sugar, orange juice mixed with sugar, and of course adding a protein snack with one of the above. Any other creative ideas?

[TennRN2004]

I was wondering what creative ideas people had to raise pts blood sugars when IVs aren't possible. I have heard of pudding mixed with sugar, orange juice mixed with sugar, and of course adding a protein snack with one of the above. Any other creative ideas?

We have a hypoglycemic protocol for all of our pts on sliding scale insulin. Actually, even with an IV, a PO form of glucose is the preferred route. You can give them glucagon tabs, or a 6 ounce cup of juice with no sugar added, or try a carbohydrate like graham crackers, milk, etc.

[speti4]

It depends how low they are. If there is no sliding scale coverage ordered and they are really low, I melt some honey in the microwave and add some juice. If they are slightly low I give a snack.

As a rule I dont find the glucase tablets handy. We have far too many patients with aphagia, bad teeth, or worse...no teeth. It takes a looong time to gum a glucose tablet, no to mention three of them. I had a pt break a tooth on one.

[letina]

We use a product called Hypostop......it's a sachet of gel which can either be swallowed or absorbed thru mucous membranes by placing it inside the mouth and massaging the cheek.

[bjs54321]

I need more information kitkat.

It all depends on the history and circumstances on how I decide what to use for low blood sugar.

Is the pt symptomatic? Can they swallow? Are they alert...disoriented? What is the blood sugar?

Go for simple carbs if able to swallow. Any juice or liquid glucose sublingually. No need to add sugar. Then offer a protein snack if on long acting insulin or oral antihyperglycemic meds.

If unable to swallow...glucagon IM.