Question

You are called to assist an adult diabetic who was found unconscious in bed. On arrival, your patient is unresponsive with snoring respirations and cool, clammy skin. Your glucometer will not power up, so blood glucose analysis is impossible at the present time. Which of the following would be most appropriate after controlling the patient's airway and delivering high-flow oxygen therapy?

A. Administer glucagon to the patient intramuscularly in a large muscle group like the gluteal muscles

B. Start an intravenous line, draw blood samples, and administer one amp of dextrose 50 percent (D50)

C. Start an intravenous line, and draw blood samples before administering a glucose-containing IV fluid bolus

D. Quickly establish an intravenous line, and transport the patient to the nearest hospital for blood glucose analysis prior to medication administration

Answer 1

The most appropriate course of action would be to start an IV line, draw blood samples, and administer dextrose 50% to address the patient's unconsciousness and low blood glucose level.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate course of action in this scenario would be to start an intravenous line, draw blood samples, and administer one amp of dextrose 50 percent (D50).

Since the patient is an adult diabetic who was found unconscious, the patient is likely experiencing hypoglycemia, which is a low blood glucose level. Administering dextrose 50 percent intravenously will rapidly increase the patient's blood glucose levels, providing quick relief.

It is important to start an intravenous line and draw blood samples before administering dextrose, as this will enable medical professionals to confirm the patient's blood glucose level and determine the appropriate dosage of dextrose.