Hypoglycemia Management on the NCLEX
15-15 rule, glucagon for unconscious, prevention.
Hypoglycemia is glucose <70. Rapid treatment essential.
Recognition
Shaky, sweaty, tachycardic, hungry, confused, irritable. Can progress to seizures, coma.
15-15 rule
15 g fast carb (3 glucose tabs, 4 oz juice, 6 oz regular soda). Recheck in 15 min. Repeat if still <70.
Unconscious
Glucagon IM if no IV access. D50 IV if line available. Follow with complex carb to prevent recurrence.
Prevention
Don't skip meals. Adjust insulin for exercise. Carry fast carbs. CGM with alerts.
Frequently asked
Why follow with complex carb?
Fast carb is brief. Complex carb sustains glucose.
Quick check
Loading a question…
How ready are you right now?
10 real NCLEX questions, free, in your browser. See how close you are to ready and which subjects are costing you.
Try 10 questions free