Hypoglycaemia Referral Access Criteria

Referrers should use this page when referring patients to public paediatric endocrinology and diabetes outpatient services for hypoglycaemia. This RAC is applicable to referrals for patients aged <16 years only.
Emergency referral
If any of the following are present or suspected, refer the patient to the emergency department or seek emergency medical advice if in a remote region.
  • Hypoglycaemia resulting in unconsciousness or seizure
Immediate referral
Orange exclamation mark in triangle: orange alertImmediately contact on-call registrar or service to arrange immediate paediatric endocrinology assessment (seen within 7 days):
  • Nil

To contact the relevant service, see Clinician Assist WA: Acute Paediatric Assessment (external site)

Clinical indications for outpatient referral
If any of these issues are present, refer to outpatient services through the Central Referral Service (CRS).
  • Signs of hypoglycaemia with documented low blood glucose (BSL <2.6mmol/L in a non-diabetic patient)
Mandatory information
Referrals missing 'mandatory information' with no explanation provided may not be accepted by site. If 'mandatory information' is not included, the explanation must be provided in the body of the referral (e.g. patient unable to access test in regional or remote areas or due to financial reason).

This information is required to inform accurate and timely triage. If unable to attach reports, please include relevant information/findings in the body of the referral and advise where (provider) investigation/imaging was completed.

History
  • Relevant history, onset, duration and severity of symptoms
  • Current medication list, including any relevant medication use that might impact on glucose metabolism
  • Any known allergies
  • Estimated fluid intake and output
  • Familial history of diabetes insipidus
Examination
  • Nil
Investigations
  • BSL
  • Any other reports from critical samples
Highly desirable
History
  • Nil
Examination
  • Nil
Investigations
  • Familial history of hypoglycaemia/diabetes
  • Hypoglycaemia screen result: blood gas, ketones, lactate, growth hormone, insulin, cortisol, ammonia
  • Neonatal screening for fatty acid oxidation disorder
Indicative clinical urgency category

Category 1

Appointment within 30 days

  • Follow up clinic from emergency presentation

Category 2

Appointment within 90 days

  • All other hypoglycaemia referrals

Category 3

Appointment within 365 days

  • No defined category 3 criteria
Exclusions
  • Nil
Useful information
  • See Australia and New Zealand Society for Endocrinology and Diabetes for clinical resources (external site)

Feedback

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Last reviewed: 18-03-2024