Unconscious patient with suspected hypoglycemia: what should be done regarding oral intake?

• A. If unconscious, NPO
• B. Give oral glucose
• C. Give juice
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (A)

When a patient is unconscious, protecting the airway is the priority, so nothing should be placed in the mouth. This prevents the danger of choking or aspiration if the patient vomits or cannot swallow. In suspected hypoglycemia, use non-oral means to raise blood glucose—typically administer intravenous dextrose or, if IV access isn’t available, administer glucagon per protocol. Only when the patient regains consciousness and can protect the airway should oral intake be considered. Doing nothing isn’t appropriate here, since hypoglycemia is a life-threatening condition that requires treatment through non-oral routes.