08/06/2026
For my worksite safety and first aid pals- I took these pics a while back (so don't grumble about exp dates- they were all good at the time of the pic) of a great idea being used at Ball. This kit has the stuff used to help a person with low blood sugar.
I really like is there is an assortment of things that the patient can choose from to eat and get their sugar up. While Glucose tablets or gel (like at the bottom right of the pic) are good when storage space is limited, I've never given it to a patient that did not immediately make a face about the taste and sometimes even refuses to take any more. Plus, if using the gel and if they are kind of groggy, they tend to let some slip out of their mouth, wipe their mouth with their hand, and then touch everything and everyone in arm's reach and make a sticky mess. There's no magic cure in those tubes that can't be obtained with items in this kit.
Also note how the expiration dates are written clearly so that people with "old eyes" (like me!) can see, and they are also listed on the kit checklist so that you don't have to dig through everything. The flip side would be a good place to include a reminder about signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, a copy of a specific treatment protocol if you have one, etc.
Always remember to follow any guidance published by your company or medical director as appropriate, only provide treatment within your scope/level of training, and especially remember my two pet peeves- as a first aid certified provider or First Responder or EMT, you NEVER administer insulin for a diabetic emergency, and do not give anything by mouth to a person who is unconscious or not awake enough to maintain a clear airway.
What ideas does your site use to improve patient care? Let us all know in the comments!