What is the first step a QMA should take if a patient arrives with a significantly low blood sugar reading?

When a patient arrives with a significantly low blood sugar reading, the first step a Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA) should take is to provide a rapid source of glucose. This is crucial because low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can lead to serious health complications if not addressed promptly. Providing a rapid source of glucose, such as glucose gel, juice, or candy, can quickly raise the patient’s blood sugar levels and alleviate symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent potential complications such as confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death. It is essential to act quickly because waiting for the next check could result in worsening the patient's condition. Administering additional insulin would further lower blood sugar levels, which is contraindicated in this situation. Encouraging the patient to take a walk is also inappropriate, as physical activity could exacerbate the problem by lowering blood sugar even more. Thus, providing a rapid source of glucose is the most effective and appropriate response in this scenario.