NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamPharmacologyMedium
An EMT is assisting a 55-year-old male with a history of diabetes who is experiencing altered mental status and diaphoresis. His blood glucose level is 45 mg/dL. The patient is conscious and able to swallow. Which of the following medications is most appropriate to administer?
- ANaloxone
- BActivated Charcoal
- COral Glucose
- DAspirin
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Oral Glucose
The patient's symptoms (altered mental status, diaphoresis) and blood glucose level (45 mg/dL) are indicative of hypoglycemia. Since he is conscious and able to swallow, oral glucose is the most appropriate and effective treatment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, used for suspected opioid overdose, not hypoglycemia.
- B. Activated charcoal is used for ingested poisonings, not hypoglycemia.
- D. Aspirin is used for suspected cardiac events, not hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia Treatment
The immediate emergency management of low blood sugar, often involving the administration of glucose.
- Oral glucose for conscious patients able to swallow.
- IV Dextrose (D50) or Glucagon for unconscious/unable to swallow patients.
- Symptoms include altered mental status, diaphoresis, weakness, hunger.
- Blood glucose < 60-70 mg/dL is typically considered hypoglycemic.
Memory trick: Low sugar, confused mind? Give glucose, leave no one behind!