What is the recommended treatment for acute hypoglycemia?

• A. Oral glucose only
• B. No treatment; observe
• C. IV dextrose
• D. Insulin infusion

Answer: (C)

Rapid restoration of blood glucose is the priority in acute hypoglycemia, and delivering glucose directly into the bloodstream achieves the fastest, most reliable correction. Intravenous dextrose provides a rapid rise in circulating glucose, which is crucial when the patient is unable to protect their airway or is not safely able to take oral carbohydrates due to altered mental status. If the patient is awake and able to swallow, oral glucose can be used, but in an acute emergency the IV route is preferred for its immediacy and reliability. Insulin infusion would worsen hypoglycemia, and simply observing without treatment allows brain injury to occur, so they are not appropriate. If IV access isn’t available, alternatives like glucagon can be used, but IV dextrose remains the recommended initial treatment when possible.