What is the pediatric protocol for treating blood glucose levels below 60 mg/dL?

When addressing low blood glucose levels in pediatric patients, particularly those below 60 mg/dL, the appropriate protocol involves administering D10 solution intravenously or intraosseously at a dosage of 5 ml/kg. This approach is favored in acute settings because it allows for rapid correction of hypoglycemia, which can be critical in young patients who may be more vulnerable to neurological damage from low glucose levels.

D10, which is a dextrose solution containing 10% dextrose, is effective in increasing blood sugar levels quickly and can be easily infused via IV/IO routes. The precise dosage of 5 ml/kg ensures that the child receives the right amount based on their weight, promoting safe and effective treatment of the hypoglycemic condition.

Other options, while they may suggest intervention for hypoglycemia, do not align with the established pediatric protocols that prioritize IV/IO glucose administration in emergency situations. Oral glucose is typically not recommended in cases where the pediatric patient may have altered consciousness or difficulty swallowing, as this can pose risks of choking or aspiration. Intramuscular glucagon is another treatment option but is generally considered when IV access is not available, and it works more slowly compared to the immediate rise in glucose levels achieved with D10 administered