Family & Friends How to Provide Support

  1.  Ask questions 

     2.  Be mindful of your actions. 

     3.   If you don't know, call 911.

     4.   Observe them

           a.   how are they acting

            b.   are they conscious

            c.  Can they communicate

 

BLOOD SUGARS: 

If UNCONSCIOUS

  1. If meter is available, check blood sugar.  (Put. video here)
  2. If you can't perform finger test, call 911.
  3. Glucagon may need to be given.

WARNING:  Do not administer insulin or other treatments on your own.

If CONSCIOUS

  1.  Observe them
  2.  Body motions, speech
  3. Ask Questions
    1. how do they feel?
    2. Finger prick test?
    3. If sugars are >200, they need fast acting insulin. 
    4. If sugars < 50, they need sugar  (tablet, soda, candy) 
    5. Don't give them too much sugar. 
    6. If they have a pump and they can bolus or suspend let them do this.

If the diabetic tells to help them, you can assist, but you have to be careful.  

 

MEDIC ALERT BRACELET:  You can suggest  an alert bracelet with their name, phone, address and medical condition so emergency personnel are aware of what they have.  Amazon and other retailers have  these for purchase.  

 

GLUCAGON KIT:  Have the diabetic ask their doctor for a glucagon prescription to have in case they  become unconscious and can't help themselves.

    1. What is It?    A hormone that your pancreas makes to help regulate blood sugars. 
    2. It increases blood sugar and prevents it from dropping too low, whereas insulin when given decreases blood sugar levels.
    3. Learn about how to use this if in an emergency.