Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which symptom would most likely lead to the use of oral glucose?

1. Chest pain

2. Altered mental status

3. Severe headache

4. Shortness of breath

The correct answer is: Altered mental status

When considering the use of oral glucose, the primary indication is a patient's altered mental status, specifically when it is suspected to be caused by hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels. Individuals exhibiting altered mental status may present confusion, disorientation, or even a decreased level of consciousness. Since glucose is the body's main energy source, providing it can help to quickly restore cognitive function if the low blood sugar is the underlying issue. In contrast, other symptoms listed, such as chest pain, severe headache, and shortness of breath, do not directly suggest a need for oral glucose. Chest pain might indicate a cardiac issue, which typically requires different interventions. A severe headache could suggest a variety of conditions including migraines or secondary causes like hemorrhagic events, neither of which would be treated with oral glucose. Lastly, shortness of breath is more associated with respiratory issues or systemic problems, where glucose administration would not be immediately beneficial. Thus, the symptom of altered mental status stands out as the most relevant when considering the use of oral glucose for treatment.