First Aid: Diabetic Emergencies
Learning objectives
- Remember the basic definition of diabetes, and distinguish between its three main types (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational).
- Understand what a diabetic episode is, and the difference between low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in terms of causes and warning signs.
- Apply the correct first aid steps for diabetic episodes—giving fast-acting sugar safely for hypoglycemia, responding appropriately to hyperglycemia, and escalating care promptly for gestational diabetes or when emergency medical services are needed.
- Analyze a situation to decide when the person’s condition requires immediate professional help (e.g. if they become unconscious, unable to swallow, seizure).
- Evaluate their own workplace setting: identify potential challenges (e.g. availability of supplies, communication, delays) to first aid for diabetic episodes, and plan for how to overcome them.
Course overview
Diabetic emergencies can escalate quickly, but knowing the terminology can help you stay calm and take the right action. This course explains the difference between high and low blood sugar, what symptoms to watch for, and how to respond safely. You’ll learn the essential vocabulary of diabetes care so you can recognize what’s happening — and help the person effectively until medical professionals arrive.
The individuals involved in the development and promotion of this course do not receive any compensation or financial benefits outside of their regular employment for their work on this course.
- 9 minutes
- Format: Video
- Tier: 2
- Course ID: 7594
English
Course Outline
- Recognize the Emergency
- Following the Three Cs
- Special Considerations