New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

A diabetic emergency with a rapid onset is often caused by what?

1. Too little insulin

2. Too much insulin

3. Low blood pressure

4. Excessive sugar intake

The correct answer is: Too much insulin

A diabetic emergency with a rapid onset is typically caused by too much insulin. When a person with diabetes administers more insulin than their body needs, it can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, a condition known as hypoglycemia. This situation develops quickly, often manifesting with symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, sweating, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures. While too little insulin is also a concern for diabetic patients, it generally leads to a slower onset of symptoms due to the resulting high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Similarly, low blood pressure and excessive sugar intake do not directly cause the rapid onset of a diabetic emergency. Understanding how insulin levels affect blood sugar is crucial for recognizing and responding to these emergencies quickly and effectively.