Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is most likely in a diabetic, particularly the type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic. The classic signs and symptoms are that the patient is cold, sweaty, shaking, and mentally disorientated. Many patients, however, do not exhibit these. Therefore, when reviewing the patient's medical history, it is important to ask diabetic patients to list their signs and symptoms.
Before you start dental treatment, ask your patients these questions: "When did you last take your insulin?' and "When did you last eat?" If the patient took insulin and hasn't eaten recently, give the patient some orange juice before you start treatment.
Mental confusion or disorientation is often the first signs of hypoglycemia. If a diabetic patient shows either of these signs, stop treatment and apply the PABCD protocol.
P. Position Patient
A. Airway
B. Breathing
C. Circulation
D. Definitive Care
Categories:
Dental Health
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