Suspected hypoglycemia: If patient is awake and able to manage oral secretions, how many grams of oral glucose should be given?

• A. 5 g
• B. 25 g
• C. 15 g total (3 oral glucose tabs or paste)
• D. 50 g

Answer: (C)

When someone is suspected of hypoglycemia and is awake and able to swallow, the goal is to rapidly raise blood glucose with a small, easily absorbed dose of fast-acting carbohydrate. A standard oral glucose dose is given in a form that the body can absorb quickly—things like glucose tablets or a small amount of glucose paste—so it acts fast but isn’t excessive. After administration, recheck the patient’s status and glucose level after a short interval and repeat if necessary. If the patient cannot protect their airway or swallow, switch to non-oral treatment such as intravenous dextrose or glucagon. A dose that’s too small may not correct the hypoglycemia reliably, while a much larger amount isn’t needed for an able patient and could cause discomfort or complicate absorption.