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Hypoglycaemia — DipIMC MCQ

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EasyMedical EmergenciesHypoglycaemiaDipIMC

A 21-year-old man with type 1 diabetes is found confused and sweating at work. Capillary glucose is 1.8 mmol/L, he is conscious but uncooperative and cannot safely swallow. What is the most appropriate drug/dose?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Glucagon 1 mg intramuscularly if intravenous glucose cannot be given immediately

Hypoglycaemia with impaired ability to swallow requires parenteral treatment such as IV glucose or IM glucagon depending on access and skills. Oral glucose in an unsafe swallow risks aspiration. Insulin worsens hypoglycaemia. The pearl is that glucose measurement is a reversible-cause test in any altered conscious level.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; NICE Type 1 Diabetes NG17