For severe hypoglycemia at home with an unconscious person who cannot safely swallow, the lay-rescuer steps for an injectable glucagon kit are: (1) reconstitute the powder if a traditional kit, (2) inject 1 mg IM or SC into the anterolateral thigh, deltoid, or buttock, (3) place the person in the lateral recovery position because vomiting is common, (4) call 911 immediately, and (5) when the person is awake and able to swallow, give a fast-acting carbohydrate followed by a complex carb plus protein snack to prevent rebound. Glucagon is never given by mouth because the GI tract destroys it. A repeat dose may be given in 15 minutes if there is no response, not 5. Calling 911 should not be delayed.
In-depth explanation
Choice 2 captures the three priority lay-rescuer actions: IM injection, lateral position, and immediate 911 activation. Always pair glucagon with EMS activation because the rise in blood glucose is short-lived and the underlying cause must still be addressed.
For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.