For an unresponsive patient with diabetes, the best initial action is to?

In the case of an unresponsive patient with diabetes, ensuring the patient's safety and maintaining their airway is the top priority. Administering oxygen and monitoring airway status is essential because an unresponsive individual may have impaired airway reflexes, increasing the risk of choking or respiratory distress. Therefore, providing oxygen and ensuring that the airway is clear reduces the risk of complications.

Other methods, such as administering oral glucose, may be inappropriate in this circumstance. If the patient is unresponsive, there is a significant likelihood that they may not be able to swallow safely, which could lead to aspiration or choking. Positioning the patient in the recovery position helps to protect the airway and ensure that any vomit or secretions can drain away from the lungs.

Encouraging family members to administer insulin does not address the immediate needs of an unresponsive patient. Inactive insulin administration is not a first response to a state of unresponsiveness. Focusing on securing the airway and providing oxygen is critical in this scenario to stabilize the patient before considering further treatment options.