How should a nurse manage mild hypoglycemia in a conscious child?

• A. Delay treatment and observe for 30 minutes
• B. Provide a fast-acting carbohydrate (e.g., juice or glucose tablet) without rechecking blood glucose
• C. Administer insulin
• D. Provide a fast-acting carbohydrate (e.g., juice or glucose tablet), then recheck blood glucose

Answer: (D)

When a conscious child has mild hypoglycemia, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly and then confirm that it has improved. A fast-acting carbohydrate—such as 4 ounces of juice, regular soda, a glucose tablet, or a small amount of candy—provides glucose rapidly. Give that dose and recheck the blood glucose after about 15 minutes. Verifying that the level has risen to at least around 70 mg/dL (or 3.9 mmol/L) ensures the treatment worked before proceeding with other steps.

If the reading remains low, repeat the fast-acting carbohydrate and recheck again. If it has normalized, offer a small snack or meal to maintain glucose until the next planned intake. Avoid giving insulin, as that would lower blood glucose further, and avoid delaying treatment, which can allow symptoms to worsen. This approach combines immediate correction with objective confirmation to keep the child safe.