Preventing repeat hypoglycaemia emergency calls with ambulance education

The Hypos Can Strike Twice tested a simple educational booklet given to diabetes patients after hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar or 'hypos') emergency callouts to reduce repeat 999 calls.

Up to 100,000 UK ambulance callouts happen yearly for hypos, with 1 in 10 severe cases recurring within a fortnight, costing the NHS over £13.5 million annually. Patients often miss early warning signs like shaking, confusion, sweating or fast pulse, leading to preventable repeat emergencies.

The booklet, given with ambulance crew advice, reduced further emergency callouts for hypos by helping patients recognise early warning signs and manage their condition. It highlighted ambulance crews' vital role in diabetes education. 

Wider impact continues through a YouTube animation that explains hypo symptoms, prevention strategies, and the booklet's role in cutting repeat 999 calls.

The research team was awarded the highest quality research at the 999 Emergency Medical Services annual conference and presented as prize winners at the Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference (ACPIC). 

To download the booklet, click here

To view the animation, click here