What would you do if a patient with diabetes mellitus came to your office and collapsed in the waiting room?

If a patient with diabetes mellitus collapsed in the waiting room, here's what I would do:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:

Ensure the safety of both yourself and the patient. Quickly assess their response and overall condition, while remaining composed.

2. Call for Emergency Assistance:

- Dial emergency services or the local emergency number immediately.

- Request additional help from staff or other patients to assist you.

3. Check Responsiveness:

- Gently shake the person and call out to them to check if they are conscious and responsive.

4. Position the Patient:

- Lay them flat on their back on the floor, ensuring their airway is clear.

5. Check for Breathing and Circulation:

- Inspect their chest for any respiratory movements and listen for breathing sounds.

- Feel their pulse, particularly at the carotid artery in the neck.

6. Perform Hands-Only CPR (if needed):

- If the person is unconscious, not breathing, or has no pulse, initiate hands-only CPR until professional help arrives.

7. Assist with Medical Supplies (if Trained):

- If you are trained in medical care and have access to emergency medical supplies, use them as directed, such as administering glucagon or managing hypoglycemia.

8. Administer Glucose (if Appropriate):

- If you suspect hypoglycemia, give the patient glucose tablets or a sugary drink if they are conscious and able to swallow.

9. Monitor Vital Signs:

- Continue checking their pulse and breathing every few minutes.

10. Communicate with Emergency Services:

- Provide any relevant information to emergency personnel, such as the patient's medical history, previous episodes, or medications they may be taking.

11. Stay with the Patient:

- Stay with the patient until emergency services arrive and provide emotional support.

12. Document and Review the Incident:

- Once the patient is receiving professional care, document the event, including the timeline, actions taken, and patient's condition. This documentation may be important for future medical management and risk management.

The exact course of action may slightly differ based on the patient's condition and the healthcare setting you are in. Always prioritize patient safety, collaborate with colleagues or healthcare professionals present, and follow any specific emergency protocols established in your institution.