Question

which of the following must exist in order to administer oral glucose?

the patient is awake and able to protect her airway.
the patient has suspected diabetic ketoacidosis.
the patient has documented hypoglycemia.
the patient is in insulin shock.

Explanation:

Identify indications and contraindications

Using the Oral Glucose Indications and Oral Glucose Contraindications knowledge points

• Indications: Oral glucose is indicated for patients with an altered mental status and a known or suspected history of diabetes (hypoglycemia).
• Contraindications: The absolute contraindications for administering oral glucose are an unconscious patient or a patient who is unable to swallow, as this presents a severe risk of airway obstruction or aspiration.
• Requirement: Therefore, for safe administration, the patient must be awake, cooperative, and able to protect their own airway.

Evaluate the given options

Using the Oral Glucose Contraindications knowledge point

• Option 1: "The patient is awake and able to protect her airway." This is a mandatory safety requirement to prevent aspiration.
• Option 2: "The patient has suspected diabetic ketoacidosis." Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is associated with hyperglycemia; administering glucose is not indicated.
• Option 3: "The patient has documented hypoglycemia." While hypoglycemia is the underlying condition, a formal blood glucose reading (documentation) is not strictly required to administer oral glucose if clinical signs and history strongly suggest it, whereas airway protection is an absolute prerequisite.
• Option 4: "The patient is in insulin shock." While insulin shock (severe hypoglycemia) is a reason to give glucose, oral glucose cannot be administered if the patient is unresponsive or unable to swallow. Thus, airway protection remains the primary condition that must exist.

Answer:

• (A) The patient is awake and able to protect her airway. (Correct answer)
• (B) The patient has suspected diabetic ketoacidosis.
• (C) The patient has documented hypoglycemia.
• (D) The patient is in insulin shock.