The key factor for successful management of medical emergencies in dental setting is the ability to recognize early signs. Dental professionals should be equipped with proper knowledge and training to react in cases of emergencies.
Dental professionals should consider hypoglycemia as a differential diagnosis for loss of consciousness. History of diabetes is the main determinant for diagnosis. The most common cause of loss of consciousness in diabetic patients is not eating after taking the morning dose of insulin or oral hypoglycemic.
Hypoglycemic attack is characterized by diaphoresis and tachycardia. Patients may experience mental confusion and ultimately loss of conscious. If patients reported experiencing hypoglycemic attack, dentist should terminate the procedure immediately. If the patient is conscious, hypoglycemic attack is best managed by sugar administration. Unconscious patients require parenteral sugar administration. Dentist should maintain patent airway, deliver BLS if needed, and activate emergency medical services.
Written by:
Weam Banjar; BDS, MSc. Clinical Research
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