Signs of Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) happens when the amount of sugar in your child’s blood drops to a level that is too low to function normally. If it is not treated, your child could faint (become unconscious) or have a seizure.

Low blood sugar can happen when receiving PN (parenteral nutrition) for different reasons, including:

• A break in the tube that delivers the PN (the central venous catheter)
• Problems with the PN bag
• Problems with the PN pump

Check your child’s PN bag and lines often. Check for a secure connection each time you place a new PN bag. Keep your pump in good working order and respond promptly to any and all alarms.

• Shakiness
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• Headache
• Irritability
• Pale skin color
• Sudden moodiness or behavior changes, such as crying for no clear reason.
• Clumsy or jerky movements
• Difficulty paying attention or confusion.

If your child is showing any signs of low blood sugar, call your child’s doctor immediately.

If your child is having seizures or you are unable to wake your child from a sleep, call 911 right away.