Which intervention should be prioritized for a patient exhibiting signs of severe hypoglycemia?

In a case of severe hypoglycemia, the first step involves measuring blood glucose levels immediately. This is crucial because it confirms the hypoglycemic state and allows healthcare providers to accurately assess the severity of the situation. Prompt measurement leads to appropriate treatment decisions, as the treatment can differ based on whether blood glucose is genuinely low or within acceptable limits.

Addressing blood glucose first is essential to understand if rapid interventions are necessary, such as administering glucose or glucagon if the patient is unable to take oral glucose. While interventions like providing oral glucose or monitoring vital signs are important in the overall management of a hypoglycemic episode, they should follow the immediate assessment of blood glucose levels. This ensures that any treatment provided is based on solid evidence of the patient's condition.