If a person is able to recognise the symptoms of hypoglycaemia and treat themselves, then treatment follows the same pattern for everyone with diabetes.
- Take some fast-acting carbohydrate, such as a sugary drink or some glucose tablets.
- Follow this up with some longer-acting carbohydrate, such as a cereal bar, a sandwich, piece of fruit, biscuits and milk or the next meal if it is due.
Hypo boxes must be available
If the person can co-operate, but needs help, hypo boxes containing the necessary treatments should be available. These can either be bought custom made or a person can fill their own box with what they know suits them and works for them.
Some form of hypo treatments should be present in every care home and the staff should be trained in its use.
Check contents of hypo box weekly
The content of the hypo boxes should be checked weekly to ensure there is enough stock and it is not out of date.
Boxes may contain a non-diet drink such as cola or lemonade, glucose tablets, soft centred sweets, such a jelly babies, and instructions for use.
Call a doctor or ambulance if necessary
If a person is unable to treat themselves and refuses help from carers, or becomes unconscious, then a doctor or an ambulance must be called to assist.
Reviewed March 2010
Next review September 2011