Question

A 68-year-old man on basal-bolus insulin is found confused and sweaty in his aged-care facility. Capillary blood glucose is 2.6 mmol/L. He is able to swallow. What is the most appropriate immediate treatment?

Accepted Answer

Give 15-20 g of fast-acting oral carbohydrate (eg glucose tablets or juice)

Answer

Give 20 units short-acting insulin subcutaneously and reassess

Answer

Arrange urgent CT brain

Answer

Observe without treatment as he is not unconscious

Answer

Give intravenous dextrose 10% regardless of oral intake

Practice question

A 68-year-old man on basal-bolus insulin is found confused and sweaty in his aged-care facility. Capillary blood glucose is 2.6 mmol/L. He is able to swallow. What is the most appropriate immediate treatment?