Which action is correct if a patient cannot safely swallow and oral glucose would be contraindicated?

Which action is correct if a patient cannot safely swallow and oral glucose would be contraindicated?

• A. Do not administer oral glucose
• B. Administer oral glucose anyway
• C. Crush and mix with water before giving
• D. Administer via nasogastric tube

Answer: (A)

When someone cannot safely swallow, giving oral glucose is contraindicated because there is a real risk of aspirating it into the lungs. In that situation, protect the airway first and treat hypoglycemia by alternate means available in your protocol, such as administering glucagon by injection if trained and equipment are available, or providing IV/IO dextrose if you are equipped and authorized to do so. Avoid attempting to place an NG tube or deliver glucose through that route in the field, as this requires procedures beyond basic life support. Keep the patient monitoring and transport-focused while supporting ventilation and circulation as needed. If the patient can swallow and is cooperative, oral glucose can be given; the key is ensuring a safe airway before any administration of glucose.

When someone cannot safely swallow, giving oral glucose is contraindicated because there is a real risk of aspirating it into the lungs. In that situation, protect the airway first and treat hypoglycemia by alternate means available in your protocol, such as administering glucagon by injection if trained and equipment are available, or providing IV/IO dextrose if you are equipped and authorized to do so. Avoid attempting to place an NG tube or deliver glucose through that route in the field, as this requires procedures beyond basic life support. Keep the patient monitoring and transport-focused while supporting ventilation and circulation as needed. If the patient can swallow and is cooperative, oral glucose can be given; the key is ensuring a safe airway before any administration of glucose.