Paramedic Recert EMS Care | 23-MCIT-F3-4121 | Endocrine Emergencies – Diabetes –  starts with the introduction to the topic.

In this chapter, This chapter discusses Diabetes, the most common and the most likely to be encountered by EMS personnel. It discusses the pathophysiology of the endocrine system, symptoms of diabetes and its management.

The lessons covered are

• Lesson 1: Glucose.
• Lesson 2: Diabetes.
• Lesson 3: Hypoglycemia.
• Lesson 4: Hyperglycemia.
• Lesson 5: Insulin Pumps.
• Lesson 6: Metabolic Syndrome & Disorders of the Adrenal Glands.

Excerpt from Paramedic Recert EMS Care | 23-MCIT-F3-4121 | Endocrine Emergencies – Diabetes

A patient with diabetes will be assessed similarly to any other medical patient; however, you must keep specific considerations in mind. Ensure that the patient is compliant with the management of their disease.

A low blood glucose level should be suspected if the patient has an altered mental status. Hypoglycemia can be life-threatening. Diabetes patients may also have chronic conditions such as renal failure, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and hearing or vision impairment. Assessing signs of sores or infections is crucial because patients may perceive pain differently, particularly in their extremities. Additionally, ask about any tingling, numbness, or swelling in the extremities. In patients with long-standing diabetes, residual limbs may become infected or septic after amputation.

Check with the patient if they have vision changes, headaches, dizziness, bleeding, or mouth sores. Inquire whether bowel movements or eating habits have changed recently.