What immediate action should a nurse take after a diabetic patient experiences a hypoglycemic episode while in the hospital?

Rationale: A. While a dietitian can help plan long-term nutrition to prevent recurrent hypoglycemia, this does not address the immediate danger of low blood glucose. Hypoglycemia can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, or cardiac arrest, so immediate intervention is required. B. Long-acting insulin lowers blood glucose over several hours and would worsen hypoglycemia. Giving more insulin is contraindicated in a hypoglycemic episode. C. Waiting to notify the provider without first correcting the low blood glucose places the patient at risk for severe complications. Immediate action is necessary before or while notifying the provider. D. The priority nursing action in hypoglycemia is to rapidly raise blood glucose. This can be achieved with 15–20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, such as glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soda. After administration, the nurse should recheck blood glucose in 15 minutes and repeat treatment if needed. Once stabilized, the nurse can identify causes, adjust insulin or medications, and notify the healthcare provider for further management.