Last Modified: 9:01am 23/12/2021

MODERATE HYPO-Adults who are conscious and able to swallow, but confused, disorientated or aggressive.

• Check ABCDE, stop IV insulin (if running).
• If capable and cooperative, treat as for mild hypoglycaemia.  If not capable and cooperative but can swallow give 2 tubes of 40% glucose gel (squeezed into mouth between teeth and gums).
• Test blood glucose level after 10-15 minutes and if still less than 4.0mmol/L repeat as above up to 3 times. If still hypoglycaemic, call doctor and consider IV dextrose or IM glucagon as per “severe” pathway.
• Check glucose after 10-15 minutes. Once blood glucose level are now > 4.0mmol/L or above:  Give 20g of long acting carbohydrate e.g. two biscuits, slice of bread, 200-300ml milk or next carbohydrate containing meal. Give 40g if IM glucagon has been used.  For patients with enteral feeding tube give 20g quick acting carbohydrate via enteral tube e.g. 50-70ml Ensure, Plus juice or Fortijuce.