# A 65-year-old client with type 1 diabetes is found unresponsive on the floor. Bedside blood glucose is 35 mg/dL. The client has IV access. Which intervention by the nurse is most appropriate FIRST?

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> subject: Adverse Effects/Contraindications/Interactions  
> category: PA

## Question

A 65-year-old client with type 1 diabetes is found unresponsive on the floor. Bedside blood glucose is 35 mg/dL. The client has IV access. Which intervention by the nurse is most appropriate FIRST?

## Option

1. Administer glucagon 1 mg intramuscularly to raise blood glucose rapidly, then recheck in 10 minutes; if still low, repeat the dose; place the client in a lateral recovery position, monitor airway, vital signs, and recovery; identify the cause and notify the provider.
2. Administer 25 grams of dextrose 50% (D50W, ~50 mL) IV push immediately, then recheck blood glucose; if no IV access, give glucagon 1 mg IM/SC; place client in lateral position, monitor airway, vital signs, and recovery; identify the cause and notify the provider. **✔ Correct answer**
3. Attempt to arouse the client, then assist to a high Fowler’s position and provide the breakfast tray with orange juice and complex carbohydrates; recheck blood glucose after 30 minutes; monitor airway and vital signs during feeding; notify the provider.
4. Administer 8 ounces of orange juice orally via a syringe while the client is supine, then elevate the head of the bed to 45 degrees; recheck blood glucose after 15 minutes; if still low, repeat the juice; monitor airway, vital signs, and recovery; notify the provider.

**Correct answer: 2**

## Explanation

Severe hypoglycemia in unconscious client
Severe hypoglycemia (BG

## In-depth explanation

Clinical reasoning summary
Severe hypoglycemia in unconscious client
Severe hypoglycemia (BG

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