After hospital discharge, the parent of a child newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus telephones the nurse because the child is acting confused and very sleepy. Which emergency measure would the nurse suggest the parent carry out before bringing the child to see the health care provider?

A. Give the child one unit of regular insulin is incorrect. Administering insulin in a child who is already showing signs of hypoglycemia (confusion, sleepiness) would worsen hypoglycemia, potentially leading to seizures or coma. Insulin should never be given to treat low blood sugar. B. Give the child a glass of orange juice is correct. The child’s symptoms, confusion, sleepiness, and possible lethargy, are classic signs of hypoglycemia, a potentially life-threatening emergency in type 1 diabetes. Providing a fast-acting carbohydrate like orange juice helps rapidly raise blood glucose levels and stabilize the child before seeking further care. The nurse should also instruct the parent to recheck blood glucose if a meter is available and monitor for continued symptoms. C. Give the child a glass of orange juice with one unit regular insulin in it is incorrect. Administering insulin while the child is hypoglycemic is dangerous, as it would lower blood glucose even further and could precipitate severe hypoglycemia. D. Give the child nothing by mouth so that a blood sugar can be drawn at the health care provider's office is incorrect. Delaying treatment for hypoglycemia is dangerous. Children with hypoglycemia can deteriorate rapidly, and waiting to obtain blood glucose can lead to seizures, coma, or death. Immediate oral carbohydrate administration is indicated if the child is conscious and able to swallow safely.