A school nurse is assessing a child who has diabetes mellitus. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of hypoglycemia?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Polyuria: Polyuria results from hyperglycemia, where excess glucose in the bloodstream leads to osmotic diuresis. This causes the kidneys to excrete more water, increasing urination frequency. It is not a feature of hypoglycemia. B. Fruity breath: Fruity-scented breath is due to ketone buildup in diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of prolonged hyperglycemia. It signals metabolic acidosis rather than low blood sugar levels. C. Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis occurs during hypoglycemia as the body releases epinephrine in response to falling glucose. This triggers sweating, tremors, and palpitations as part of the autonomic response. D. Polyphagia: Polyphagia is a symptom of hyperglycemia, where cells are starved of glucose despite its presence in the blood. This leads to increased hunger, not typically seen in acute hypoglycemia.