A nurse is teaching the parents of a child who has diabetes mellitus about the manifestations of hypoglycemia. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Polyuria (frequent urination) is a hallmark symptom of hyperglycemia, not hypoglycemia. It occurs because elevated blood glucose levels exceed the renal threshold, leading to osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid loss. Children experiencing hypoglycemia do not typically present with increased urination. B. Dry mucous membranes are a sign of dehydration, which can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or prolonged hyperglycemia due to fluid loss. Hypoglycemia does not cause dehydration; instead, the child may appear clammy and moist due to sweating. C. Fruity or acetone-smelling breath is associated with DKA, resulting from ketone accumulation due to uncontrolled hyperglycemia. This symptom does not occur in hypoglycemia, which is characterized by low blood glucose without ketone buildup. D. Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) is a classic sign of hypoglycemia, caused by sympathetic nervous system activation in response to falling blood glucose levels. Additional symptoms include tremors, palpitations, pallor, irritability, hunger, headache, and anxiety. These neurogenic and neuroglycopenic symptoms occur because the brain is highly dependent on glucose, and the body initiates counter-regulatory hormonal responses (epinephrine, glucagon) to raise blood sugar. Recognizing these signs early is critical to prevent severe hypoglycemia, seizures, or loss of consciousness.Top of FormBottom of Form