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Medical Emergencies · single question

A patient with type 2 diabetes (HbA1c 7.5%, fasting glucose 175 mg/dL) presents for a routine extraction, feeling well with no acute symptoms. What is the appropriate management?

  1. Proceed with routine extraction using standard precautions, since the diabetes is reasonably controlled and the patient is asymptomatic
  2. Cancel and refer to a physician before any dental care
  3. Withhold all treatment indefinitely
  4. Admit to the hospital for the extraction
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Correct answer: A. Proceed with routine extraction using standard precautions, since the diabetes is reasonably controlled and the patient is asymptomatic

An HbA1c of 7.5% reflects reasonable control and a glucose of 175 mg/dL is acceptable for routine outpatient dental surgery in an asymptomatic patient; standard care can proceed with attention to stress reduction and post-op infection control.Other options: Cancelling, withholding care, or hospital admission are unnecessary for a reasonably controlled, asymptomatic diabetic.Key exam takeaway: Reasonably controlled, asymptomatic diabetics can receive routine dental care; physician consult is for poor control or acute symptoms.

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