How is hypoglycemia treated in an unconscious patient?

Treating hypoglycemia in an unconscious patient requires immediate and effective intervention, as the patient's inability to swallow or respond poses a significant risk if non-invasive methods are used. The correct approach is the administration of intravenous dextrose (D50), which delivers a rapid elevation of blood glucose levels, crucial for restoring consciousness and preventing further complications.

Intravenous dextrose is specially formulated to ensure that glucose is circulated directly into the bloodstream, providing a quick remedy for the hypoglycemic condition. In an emergency setting, this is the preferred method because it bypasses potential risks associated with oral administration, such as choking or aspiration, given that the patient is unconscious.

Other methods, such as oral glucose, are unsuitable for unconscious patients since they cannot swallow safely. Insulin administration could further decrease blood glucose levels, worsening the hypoglycemia. Feeding the patient poses similar risks associated with potential choking and is not feasible until the patient is fully conscious and able to swallow safely. Thus, the administration of intravenous dextrose is the most effective and safest strategy for treating hypoglycemia in unconstrained patients.