Which is the recommended treatment for hypoglycemia in a metabolic crisis?

• A. administer a large dose of insulin
• B. stop activity, needs IV glucose ASAP
• C. give oral glucose solution
• D. rest and monitor

Answer: (B)

When the body is in a metabolic crisis, hypoglycemia is an urgent energy deficit that must be corrected quickly to protect brain function and overall stability. The most effective move is to restore blood glucose as fast as possible with intravenous glucose, because IV delivery provides rapid, reliable increase in circulating sugar. Stopping activity also helps by reducing the muscle and systemic demand for glucose, buying time and limiting further drop in levels while you administer the treatment.

Giving oral glucose could be an option if the patient is awake, alert, and able to swallow safely, but in a crisis situation where mental status may be impaired or rapid correction is needed, IV glucose is preferred for speed and reliability. Administering a large dose of insulin would worsen hypoglycemia, and simply resting and monitoring without treatment would allow the condition to deteriorate.