What should you do if a client shows signs of hypoglycemia?

When a client shows signs of hypoglycemia, providing a fast-acting carbohydrate is the appropriate response because it quickly raises blood glucose levels, alleviating the symptoms of low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can present with symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, sweating, and dizziness, and immediate intervention is crucial to prevent the situation from worsening and potentially leading to seizures or loss of consciousness.

Fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, regular soda, or fruit juice, are effective because they can be rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, thereby increasing blood glucose levels swiftly. This action helps stabilize the client's condition and prevents further complications.

In contrast, administering long-acting insulin would exacerbate hypoglycemia instead of correcting it, as it is designed to lower blood glucose over an extended period rather than raise it quickly. Waiting and observing without intervention does not address the immediate need for correction of low blood sugar and could be dangerous if the client's condition worsens. Notifying the physician without taking any action would delay necessary treatment and could also put the client at risk.