At what blood glucose threshold should you treat pediatric hypoglycemia?

• A. Glucose less than 80 mg/dL.
• B. Glucose less than 60 mg/dL (3.3 mmol/L).
• C. Glucose less than 50 mg/dL.
• D. Glucose less than 40 mg/dL.

Answer: (B)

When blood glucose falls below 60 mg/dL (3.3 mmol/L), the brain is at risk for not getting enough glucose, leading to neuroglycopenia and symptoms or seizures if not corrected promptly. This threshold is used to trigger treatment so you raise glucose quickly and prevent deterioration. In practice, if the child can safely swallow, give fast-acting carbohydrates and recheck soon; if they cannot take oral glucose or there’s concern for ongoing hypoglycemia, escalate to IV dextrose or glucagon per protocol. The aim is to restore glucose above this level promptly and ensure ongoing monitoring.