Q & A: Hypoglycemia in the Workplace

Dr. Mezitis Replies to Your Questions: 

I have a startup company, and I have 3 employees who are diabetic. As an employer, can you tell me the first aid steps I need to incorporate in case someone goes into hypoglycemia?

The company should have simple sugary snacks and drinks (e.g. orange juice) readily available for dealing with hypoglycemia symptoms. A glucagon kit should be stored in the refrigerator to be injected into muscle in emergencies where the employee or customer are poorly responsive and forcing liquids or foods into their mouth would be unsafe. More recently, an inhaled form of glucagon (Baqsimi) has become available. It may prove more convenient for staff who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable giving injections to administer.