Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Which of the following symptoms is associated with hypoglycemia?

1. Decreased deep tendon reflexes, hypertension and difficulty swallowing

2. Increased deep tendon reflexes, hypertension and slow heart rate

3. Increased heart rate, increased irritability, nausea

4. There are no early signs of hypoglycemia

The correct answer is: Increased heart rate, increased irritability, nausea

The symptoms associated with hypoglycemia include increased heart rate, increased irritability, and nausea. When blood glucose levels drop, the body responds to this deficiency by activating the sympathetic nervous system, which can cause an increase in heart rate as a compensatory mechanism. This reaction is often accompanied by feelings of irritability due to the brain's reliance on glucose for energy, which can be scarce during hypoglycemia. Nausea is also a common symptom that can occur as the body's stress response is triggered. In contrast, some of the other options reflect symptoms associated with various neurological or cardiovascular conditions that are not specifically linked to hypoglycemia. For example, decreased or increased deep tendon reflexes, hypertension, and difficulty swallowing can indicate issues such as neurological impairment or other systemic conditions rather than low blood sugar. The statement that there are no early signs of hypoglycemia contradicts established knowledge about the condition, as there are indeed several early signs and symptoms that can manifest, warning individuals of their declining blood sugar levels.