Medical Emergencies · single question
A Type 1 diabetic patient forgot to eat breakfast, becomes dizzy and confused at the dental office. What is the most appropriate immediate action?
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Correct answer: C. Give a source of glucose (orange juice, glucose tablets)
Hypoglycemia in a conscious patient: give oral glucose immediately — 4 oz orange juice, 3–4 glucose tablets, or regular soda. If unconscious: glucagon IM or IV dextrose. NEVER give insulin to a hypoglycemic patient.
- A. Insulin would WORSEN hypoglycemia and could be fatal — absolute contraindication.
- B. Trendelenburg is for syncope/hypotension — not for hypoglycemia management.
- C. CORRECT. Give oral glucose source — orange juice, glucose tablets. Patient is conscious and showing early symptoms.
- D. 911 is appropriate if consciousness is lost, but first step for conscious hypoglycemia is oral glucose.
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