What is the recommended treatment for hypoglycemia in critically ill patients?

The recommended treatment for hypoglycemia in critically ill patients is to administer intravenous dextrose, specifically D50 (50% dextrose solution). D50 is an effective and rapid way to increase blood glucose levels in patients experiencing severe hypoglycemia.

In critically ill patients, swift correction of low blood sugar is crucial to prevent complications such as neurological damage or worsening of their overall clinical condition. The administration of a D50 ampule provides a concentrated source of glucose that can quickly restore normal glucose levels in the bloodstream. It is particularly useful in a critical care setting where immediate action is often necessary.

Other forms of glucose can be less effective or slower to administer. For instance, using D5W (a solution with 5% dextrose) may not provide the rapid response required in emergency situations, as it delivers a lower concentration of glucose. Additionally, administering a glucose bolus without specifying the concentration also lacks the immediate effectiveness that D50 provides. Lastly, administering insulin would be contraindicated in the context of hypoglycemia, as it would further decrease blood glucose levels rather than correct them.

Therefore, intravenous D50 is a well-established and appropriate treatment for addressing hypoglycemia in critically ill patients.