Outcome of diabetic patients treated in the prehospital arena after a hypoglycaemic episode, and an exploration of treat and release protocols: a review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
This review examines current treat and release protocols adopted by the ambulance service, and factors that may predispose patients to hypoglycaemia.


METHODS
Online database searches and hand searches of journals led to 241 articles being found, of which eight were used for this article.


RESULTS
Out of hospital treatment of hypoglycaemia is safe for most patients, but further studies are needed if positive improvements are to be made.


CONCLUSIONS
There is potential for further research in this area and clarification is needed in the treat and release debate. A definitive set of protocols would be beneficial to the ambulance service.
Pre-hospital Emergency Research Unit (PERU), Lansdowne Hospital, Cardiff, UK. ks.roberts@emergency-research.co.uk
K
K
Roberts
A
A
Smith
D002985:Clinical Protocols; D048909:Diabetes Complications; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000379:methods*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D007003:Hypoglycemia / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome