Type 1 Diabetes: Low Blood Sugar At School

Key Wellness/Safety Strategies for Managing Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) at School (Type 1 Diabetes)

Know the Threshold

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is when blood glucose drops below 4.0 mmol/L.

Understand What Affects Blood Sugar

• Insulin and physical activity lower blood sugar.
• Carbohydrates in food raise blood sugar.

Recognize Common Causes

• Too much insulin with not enough food
• Missing or delaying a meal or snack
• Being physically active without adjusting food or insulin

Identify Symptoms (May Vary Person to Person)

• Shaking or sweating
• Pale skin
• Hunger
• Weakness or fatigue
• Bad mood
• Headache or blurry vision
• Dizziness or confusion
• Unusual behavior

Respond Immediately if Low Blood Sugar Is Suspected

• Act quickly
• Do not leave the student alone
• Stay put: don’t send the student away or walk them around—walking can make it lower

Check and Treat

• Check blood sugar
• If < 4.0 mmol/L or low blood sugar is suspected without a meter:
  • Give fast-acting sugar, such as:
    • Candy
    • Dextrose tablets
    • Juice
• Recheck after 10–15 minutes
• Repeat treatment steps until blood sugar is above 4.0 mmol/L
• If the next meal/snack is more than 1 hour away, provide a snack
• Follow the student’s care plan for specifics

Handle Severe Hypoglycemia (Medical Emergency)

• Very low blood sugar can cause loss of consciousness or a seizure
• Do not put anything in their mouth
• Follow emergency procedures

Presenters/Sources

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