The nurse teaches a family member to use a glucagon emergency injection for an unconscious adult with severe hypoglycemia. Which statement by the family member shows correct understanding?
1I will give the injection and wait 30 minutes before calling for emergency help.
2I will give the medication by mouth and keep the person flat on the back.
3I will call for help only if a second injection fails after 15 minutes.
4I will inject it, turn the person onto the side, and call emergency services now.✓ Correct answer
Explanation
After glucagon is injected, the unconscious person should be turned onto the side because vomiting can occur, and emergency medical help should be called immediately. Nothing should be given by mouth until the person is awake and able to swallow.
Why this is correct Glucagon can restore glucose temporarily, but the person still needs emergency evaluation. Side positioning reduces aspiration risk if vomiting occurs during recovery.
Easy analogy or mental picture Glucagon is a rescue bridge, not the final destination; activate help while protecting the airway.
Memory hook Shot, side, summon help.
NCLEX decision rule An unconscious client receives no oral intake; protect the airway and escalate immediately after rescue medication.
Why the other choices are wrong Waiting delays definitive care, oral administration risks aspiration, and a second dose does not replace immediate emergency activation.
References
1DailyMed: Glucagon emergency kitInjection site, side positioning, and immediate emergency activation