Prepare for your First Aid and CPR/AED Level C exam. Study with detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Ace your certification!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is listed as a sign of a diabetic emergency?

When blood glucose levels are too far from normal, the brain cannot function properly because it relies on glucose for energy. A change in level of responsiveness—ranging from confusion or drowsiness to being unresponsive—directly signals that the brain is not getting or is overwhelmed by glucose. This makes it the most urgent and reliable sign of a diabetic emergency, requiring immediate action. If the person is still awake and able to swallow, provide a fast-acting sugar source and monitor their response. If they become unresponsive or cannot swallow, call emergency services right away, do not give anything by mouth, place them in the recovery position, and monitor breathing. If you’re trained and a glucagon kit is available, administer it per your training. Other signs like rapid breathing (which can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis), pale skin, or seizures may occur, but changes in responsiveness best indicate an acute diabetic medical emergency.

When blood glucose levels are too far from normal, the brain cannot function properly because it relies on glucose for energy. A change in level of responsiveness—ranging from confusion or drowsiness to being unresponsive—directly signals that the brain is not getting or is overwhelmed by glucose. This makes it the most urgent and reliable sign of a diabetic emergency, requiring immediate action.

If the person is still awake and able to swallow, provide a fast-acting sugar source and monitor their response. If they become unresponsive or cannot swallow, call emergency services right away, do not give anything by mouth, place them in the recovery position, and monitor breathing. If you’re trained and a glucagon kit is available, administer it per your training. Other signs like rapid breathing (which can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis), pale skin, or seizures may occur, but changes in responsiveness best indicate an acute diabetic medical emergency.