What is the immediate responsibility of a Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA) when a resident shows signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia?

The immediate responsibility of a Qualified Medication Assistant (QMA) when a resident shows signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia is to take the resident's blood sugar. This action is critical for several reasons:

First, measuring blood sugar levels provides objective data that helps determine the severity of the hypoglycemic episode. Symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, dizziness, or excessive sweating can be indicative of low blood sugar, but these signs can overlap with other medical conditions. By checking the blood glucose level, the QMA can confirm whether the blood sugar is indeed low, allowing for an appropriate and timely response.

Second, knowing the exact blood sugar level is essential for deciding on the next steps in management. If the blood glucose reading confirms hypoglycemia, the QMA can then take action based on established protocols, such as administering a fast-acting source of glucose.

In contrast, notifying the family, reporting to the physician, or documenting observations, while important, are not immediate actions that address the critical situation at hand. These steps would typically follow the blood sugar assessment and any necessary interventions to stabilize the resident. Thus, taking the blood sugar is the priority response that allows for effective management of the hypoglycemic episode.