diabetes emergency action plan

Acute Glycemic Crisis Response Protocol

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-GLYC-001
• Version: 1.0
• Effective Date: [__________]
• Review Cycle: Annual

1. Purpose & Scope

This procedure establishes a standardized response framework for managing acute glycemic instability (hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia) for [Full Legal Name]. It is intended for use by caregivers, emergency contacts, and administrative staff to ensure rapid, life-saving intervention.

2. Prerequisites

• Emergency Kit: Glucagon kit, glucose tablets/gel, blood glucose monitor, and ketone strips.
• Documentation: Current medication list, physician contact information, and [__________] medical history summary.
• Access: Unrestricted access to the [__________] storage location where emergency supplies are kept.

3. Roles & Responsibilities

4. Step-by-Step Procedure

Phase 1: Assessment and Triage

• Verify if the individual is conscious and able to swallow.
• Check blood glucose levels using [Device Name/Model].
• If blood glucose is < 70 mg/dL, initiate Hypoglycemia Protocol (Phase 2).
• If blood glucose is > 250 mg/dL with symptoms of confusion/nausea, initiate Hyperglycemia Protocol (Phase 3).

Phase 2: Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) Intervention

• Administer 15g of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., [Specific Product]).
• Re-check blood glucose levels after 15 minutes.
• If levels remain < 70 mg/dL, repeat carbohydrate administration.
• If unconscious, administer [Glucagon Brand Name] per instructions and call [Emergency Services Number].

Phase 3: Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) Intervention

• Check for ketones using [Test Strip Brand].
• If ketones are present, contact [Physician Name] at [Phone Number] immediately.
• Encourage intake of water or sugar-free fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Monitor for symptoms of DKA (fruity breath, deep breathing, vomiting).

Phase 4: Post-Incident Documentation

• Record the incident in the [Internal Log Name].
• Notify [Designated Emergency Contact] of the event.
• Replenish any used supplies from the emergency kit within [Number] hours.

5. Quality Assurance, Pro-tips, and Pitfalls

• QA: Conduct a quarterly audit of all emergency kit expiration dates.
• Pro-tip: Keep a printed copy of this SOP inside the emergency kit lid for rapid reference during high-stress events.
• Common Pitfall: Over-treating hypoglycemia can lead to severe "rebound" hyperglycemia. Always adhere to the 15-minute re-check rule.

6. FAQs

Q: When should I call emergency services? A: Call [Emergency Services Number] immediately if the individual loses consciousness, experiences a seizure, or fails to respond to initial treatment after two cycles.

Q: Can I use expired medication if it is all I have? A: No. Expired medication may have degraded potency. Always maintain a supply of current, non-expired medication in the [Storage Location].