What is the first action a school nurse should take when a child with type I diabetes reports sweating and weakness after an insulin injection?

In this scenario, the most appropriate first action when a child with type I diabetes reports symptoms such as sweating and weakness after an insulin injection is to measure the blood sugar level. This is critical because these symptoms can indicate hypoglycemia, which is a low blood sugar level that can occur after administering insulin. Before taking any further actions, it is essential to confirm whether the child is experiencing low blood sugar.

Measuring the blood sugar provides objective data that can guide the nurse’s next steps. If the blood sugar is confirmed to be low, the nurse can take appropriate measures, such as providing juice or glucose tablets, to correct the hypoglycemic state. Monitoring blood sugar levels in response to symptoms is a standard practice in diabetes management, ensuring that the nurse acts on accurate information rather than assumptions based on symptoms alone.

The other options, while potentially relevant, may not address the immediate need to identify the child's blood glucose level. Administering juice or glucose tablets without confirmation of low blood glucose could be unnecessary and even dangerous if the blood sugar is normal or high. Calling for medical assistance might not be needed if the situation is manageable with a quick assessment of blood sugar. Similarly, administering a second dose of insulin in the presence of symptoms could lead