An individual with type 2 diabetes who takes glipizide (Glucotrol)to control her blood glucose has begun a formal exercise program at a local gym.While exercising on the treadmill,she becomes pale,diaphoretic,and shaky.She has a headache and feels as though she is going to pass out.What is the individual's priority action?
A) Drink additional water to prevent dehydration.
B) Eat something with 15 g of simple carbohydrates.
C) Go to the first aid station to have glucose checked.
D) Take another dose of the oral agent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is displaying classic symptoms of hypoglycemia.The patient is on sulfonylurea therapy,which carries the risk of hypoglycemia.The walking may be more exercise than she is used to and may thereby cause hypoglycemia.Fifteen grams of carbohydrate is appropriate for initial management of hypoglycemia.Hypoglycemia does not place the patient at risk for dehydration.The patient requires immediate treatment and could pass out while going to the first aid station.It cannot be assumed that the gym has access to diabetes treatment supplies.Additional doses of oral diabetes medications should not be taken without consulting the healthcare team.An additional dose of glipizide could promote further hypoglycemia.

An Individual with Type 2 Diabetes Who Takes Glipizide (Glucotrol)to