To which diabetic patient should you administer oral glucose?

Administering oral glucose is appropriate for a patient who is conscious and able to protect their airway, so confusion with accompanying symptoms like tachycardia and pallor could indicate a hypoglycemic episode. In this case, the correct choice reflects a patient who shows signs of altered mental status, which is often associated with low blood sugar levels.

The patient’s confusion suggests that their glucose levels may not be adequate for proper brain function, and since they are still able to swallow and are conscious, administering oral glucose can help raise their blood sugar levels. The elevated heart rate and pale skin are typical symptoms of an adrenaline response to hypoglycemia. Therefore, this option indicates that the patient is likely experiencing a hypoglycemic event, making them a suitable candidate for oral glucose therapy.

In contrast, a semiconscious individual without a gag reflex would be unable to safely swallow oral glucose due to the high risk of choking or aspiration. A conscious female with nausea and vomiting might not be able to keep the glucose down, risking further complications. An unconscious male would also be unable to protect his airway and safely consume oral glucose. Thus, in this scenario, the parameters of the confused male with tachycardia and pallor make him the