What should be the immediate response to altered mental status in a diabetic patient?

Study for the NOLS Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam confidently!

In cases of altered mental status in a diabetic patient, determining the blood glucose level is the most critical immediate response. This step is essential because alterations in mental status can be indicative of either hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). By checking the blood glucose level, you can ascertain the underlying cause of the altered mental status, which is crucial for providing the appropriate intervention.

Administering insulin without knowing the blood glucose level could exacerbate hypoglycemia if the patient's blood sugar is already low. Initiating CPR is inappropriate unless the patient is unresponsive and shows no signs of breathing, as this does not directly address the issue of altered mental status. Contacting a physician, while important in a comprehensive care plan, does not provide immediate assistance and intervention needed for the patient at that moment. Thus, assessing the blood glucose level is the vital first step in managing the situation effectively.

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