A patient with diabetes is unconscious, has a blood glucose level of 38 mg/dL (2.1 mmol/L), and has a patent intravenous line. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: A. Administer intravenous dextrose as prescribed
- A. Administer intravenous dextrose as prescribed
- B. Give a glass of fruit juice by mouth
- C. Administer the next dose of rapid-acting insulin
- D. Place the patient in a sitting position
Explanation
An unconscious patient cannot safely swallow, so intravenous dextrose is the priority treatment when access is available. Oral juice may cause aspiration, and more insulin would worsen the hypoglycaemia.
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About Endocrine and Diabetes Drugs
Endocrine pharmacology includes insulin preparations, oral antidiabetic drugs, thyroid and antithyroid medicines, corticosteroids, sex hormones and drugs affecting calcium balance. Questions address onset and duration, administration, monitoring, hypoglycaemia, steroid adverse effects and the difference between replacing a deficient hormone and suppressing excessive hormone activity.
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