What should be done if a patient is unable to take oral glucose?

• A. Administer Glucagon 1 mg IM.
• B. Begin IV insulin drip.
• C. Provide oral glucose despite inability.
• D. Call EMS and wait.

Answer: (A)

When a patient is hypoglycemic but cannot take oral glucose, you need a rapid, non-oral way to raise blood sugar. Glucagon given by intramuscular injection does exactly that: it stimulates the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, producing a quick rise in blood glucose. This is the preferred emergency treatment for someone who is unconscious or unable to swallow because it works without needing IV access and can restore consciousness quickly. After glucagon is given, monitor the patient and provide an oral or IV glucose as soon as they can take or receive it.

Giving an IV insulin drip would worsen hypoglycemia, and providing oral glucose isn’t feasible when the patient cannot swallow. Waiting and calling EMS without administering treatment would delay care and is not appropriate when glucagon is readily available and indicated.