Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Why do children tend to develop hypoglycemic crisis more often and severely?

1. They have faster metabolisms than adults

2. They do not always eat correctly and on schedule

3. They tend to ignore symptoms of low blood sugar

4. They have higher activity levels than adults

The correct answer is: They do not always eat correctly and on schedule

Children are more likely to develop hypoglycemic crises due to their eating habits, which can often be irregular or inconsistent. Unlike adults who may adhere to set meal times, children might skip meals or snacks, or have an inadequate intake of carbohydrates necessary for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Additionally, children can be easily distracted by play or other activities, leading them to forget to eat or not recognize the need for food. This inconsistency in their dietary habits can cause significant fluctuations in blood sugar, rendering them more vulnerable to hypoglycemia. While factors like metabolism and activity level do play roles in a child's overall health, the primary concern linked to hypoglycemic events is the lack of proper and timely intake of food, which is critical for maintaining blood sugar levels within a normal range. Caution must also be taken when interpreting how children respond to physical activity and its effects on their blood sugar, but the crux of the issue rests on their eating patterns.