A 42-year-old female with a history of type II diabetes has an altered level of consciousness. Which of the following should you provide her?

• A. Oxygen by NRB
• B. Coffee with two packets of non-dairy creamer
• C. Orange juice with 2 tbsp sugar added
• D. Soda sipped through straw

Answer: (C)

The key idea is treating suspected hypoglycemia in a patient who is conscious enough to swallow with a fast-acting carbohydrate to raise blood glucose quickly. Orange juice with added sugar provides simple sugars that are rapidly absorbed, helping to restore brain glucose within minutes. This is the most reliable way to address low blood sugar in someone who can protect their airway and swallow.

If they were unable to swallow or were unconscious, oral sugars would not be safe or effective, and you would use IV dextrose or glucagon instead. The other choices don’t deliver a rapid, adequate glucose boost or aren’t appropriate for someone with altered consciousness.