Diabetic Emergency

Assess whether the patient has low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). When in doubt, treat for hypoglycemia by giving sugar — this is the safer default. Call 101 for all severe or uncertain cases. Apply when: Person is a known or suspected diabetic showing signs of altered consciousness, confusion, weakness, trembling, sweating, behavioural changes, excessive thirst, fruity breath odour, or rapid deep breathing. Also apply when any person has unexplained altered consciousness (rule out hypoglycemia even in non-diabetic patients).