Aug2014_First Aid for Diabetics
A partygoer slurs their words, can hardly stand up or may have even passed out.
What do you do, let them sleep it off?
Red Cross First Aid trainer, Anthony Cameron warns it could be a diabetic episode.
“A diabetic attack can often be confused with someone under the influence of alcohol” says Cameron.
“Low blood sugar levels affect the brain’s ability to function properly, and a quick and effective first aid treatment can be as simple as giving the person a fruit juice, soft drink, dried fruit or lolly.”
It is National Diabetes Week from July 13-19 and to help raise awareness about ways we can support people living with diabetes, Red Cross urges us all to brush up on our first aid skills.
“A large number of Australians are living with diabetes, both diagnosed and undiagnosed” says Cameron “and regardless of the type of diabetes, any diabetic can suffer an episode like this, anywhere, at any time.
“Red Cross First Aid training gives us the knowledge and skills to help with a diabetic emergency.”
To book a Red Cross first aid training course go online to redcross.org.au/firstaid or call 1300 367 428.
