What is the appropriate treatment for a hospitalized unconscious patient with hypoglycemia?

• A. an intramuscular injection of glucagon
• B. 6 ounces of orange juice
• C. a piece of candy
• D. putting sugar under the tongue to dissolve

Answer: (A)

When a patient is unconscious from hypoglycemia, the priority is to raise blood glucose quickly without risking aspiration or inability to swallow. Glucagon given by intramuscular injection fits this need because it stimulates the liver to release stored glucose (glycogenolysis), producing a rapid increase in blood glucose even if the patientcannot take anything orally. This parenteral rescue therapy is especially useful when intravenous access is not yet available. Oral options like orange juice, candy, or dissolving sugar under the tongue are not appropriate for an unconscious patient due to choking/aspiration risk and unreliable effectiveness. If IV access is already established, IV dextrose can provide an even faster correction, but the scenario in question highlights intramuscular glucagon as the appropriate immediate treatment. After glucose begins to rise and the patient regains consciousness, continue monitoring and provide a sustained carbohydrate source as needed.