Conscious patient with hypoglycemia should be given what initial treatment, and how much?

• A. 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates; recheck glucose after 15 minutes
• B. 50 mL of 50% dextrose IV
• C. 1 mg glucagon IM
• D. 10-12 oz juice

Answer: (A)

Raising blood glucose quickly with a source the patient can swallow is the right move when someone is conscious and hypoglycemic. About 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate is recommended, using options like glucose tablets or a small amount of juice or regular soda. After about 15 minutes, check the blood glucose to confirm it has risen to a safe level (and repeat the dose if it’s still low). Treatments like intravenous glucose or glucagon are reserved for when the person cannot take oral carbohydrates or is not conscious, so they aren’t the initial choice for a conscious patient.