Assess patient for the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Adrenergic (early symptoms) sweating, tremor, pallor, tachycardia, palpitations, nervousness from the release of adrenalin when blood glucose falls rapidly
Neurologic (later symptoms) light-headedness, headache, confusion, irritability, slurred speech, lack of coordination, staggering gait from depression of central nervous system as glucose level progressively falls.
Assess patient for cognitive or physical impairments that may interfere with ability to accurately administer insulin.
Closely monitor blood glucose levels to detect hypoglycemia.
Instruct patient in the importance of accuracy in insulin preparation and meal timing to avoid hypoglycemia.
Encourage patient to carry a portable treatment for hypoglycemia at all times.
Between-meal snacks as well as extra food taken before exercise should be encouraged to prevent hypoglycemia.