Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What is the suggested course of action for a patient who is unresponsive and has an unknown blood glucose level?

1. Provide oral carbohydrates

2. Start an IV and administer 50 mL of 50% dextrose

3. Check vital signs only

4. Administer water to hydrate

The correct answer is: Start an IV and administer 50 mL of 50% dextrose

When a patient is unresponsive and has an unknown blood glucose level, the most appropriate response is to initiate intravenous access and administer 50 mL of 50% dextrose. This intervention is crucial because unconsciousness in this scenario could be due to hypoglycemia, a condition where blood glucose levels drop dangerously low. Administering dextrose directly addresses the potential cause of the patient's unresponsiveness. It rapidly increases the blood glucose level, which can help restore consciousness and normalize mental function if the unresponsiveness is indeed a result of low blood sugar. Intravenous administration of dextrose is a quick and effective way to deliver glucose directly into the bloodstream, especially when the patient cannot safely swallow or is at risk of aspiration. Other interventions, such as providing oral carbohydrates, are not safe in an unresponsive patient due to the risk of choking or aspiration. Checking vital signs only would fail to directly address the immediate risk posed by potential hypoglycemia. Administering water does not contribute to resolving the underlying issue and could also pose a risk in an unresponsive individual. Thus, intravenous administration of dextrose is the most effective and safe course of action in this emergency scenario.