Question

A student with diabetes tells the school nurse that he is feeling nervous and hungry. The nurse assesses the child and finds he has tachycardia and is diaphoretic with a blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L). What should the school nurse administer?

A) A combination of protein and carbohydrates, such as a small cup of yogurt
B) Two teaspoons of sugar dissolved in a cup of apple juice
C) Half of a cup of juice, followed by cheese and crackers
D) Half a sandwich with a protein-based filling

Answer 1

The school nurse should administer two teaspoons of sugar dissolved in a cup of apple juice to the student with diabetes in order to raise their blood sugar levels and alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The school nurse should administer Two teaspoons of sugar dissolved in a cup of apple juice to the student with diabetes. The student is experiencing symptoms of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, as evidenced by feeling nervous, hungry, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), and a blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L).

In this situation, it is important to quickly raise the student's blood sugar levels. Sugar dissolved in juice is a fast-acting source of carbohydrates that can rapidly raise blood sugar levels. The combination of sugar and juice provides glucose that can be readily absorbed by the body, helping to alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.