Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What are the indications for administering oral glucose?

1. Altered mental status and diabetes history

2. Asthma and chest pain

3. Unconsciousness and high blood sugar

4. Allergic reactions and fainting

The correct answer is: Altered mental status and diabetes history

Administering oral glucose is indicated when a patient exhibits altered mental status combined with a known history of diabetes. This situation typically arises in cases of hypoglycemia, where a person with diabetes may have dangerously low blood sugar levels, leading to confusion, lethargy, or altered consciousness. By providing oral glucose, you can quickly raise blood sugar levels, helping to restore normal brain function and prevent further complications. The other options don't align with the appropriate use of oral glucose. Conditions like asthma and chest pain pertain to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, where glucose would not be relevant or beneficial. Unconsciousness, particularly when accompanied by high blood sugar, may require alternative medical interventions, such as insulin rather than glucose. Similarly, allergic reactions and fainting involve different mechanisms that do not warrant the use of oral glucose.