Hypoglycaemia
The target blood glucose of critically ill children is 4–10 mmol/L. It is essential to check the blood glucose of all critically ill children as hypoglycaemia (< 3.5 mmol/L) is an emergency. Immediate treatment is with an IV glucose bolus and depends on the nature of the available IV access. Peripheral line: 5 mL/kg of a 10% dextrose solution. Central line: 2 mL/kg of a 25% dextrose solution.
The target blood glucose of critically ill children is 4–10 mmol/L. It is essential to check the blood glucose of all critically ill children as hypoglycaemia (< 3.5 mmol/L) is an emergency. Immediate treatment is with an IV glucose bolus and depends on the nature of the available IV access.
- Peripheral line: 5 mL/kg of a 10% dextrose solution.
- Central line: 2 mL/kg of a 25% dextrose solution. The bolus will need to be repeated until the blood glucose ≥ 4.0 mmol/L.
For additional information see: Hypoglycaemia in children.
Standard Treatment Guidelines And Essential Medicines List For South Africa, Hospital Level, Paediatrics, 2023 Edition
Chapter 23: Paediatric Intensive Care, 23.6 Electrolyte Abnormalities, 23.6.8 Hypoglycaemia