What should be done if a diabetic patient is unconscious and has low blood sugar?

When a diabetic patient is unconscious and has low blood sugar, the most appropriate action is to administer glucagon or intravenous dextrose. This is because oral sugar cannot be given safely to an unconscious person, as they might not be able to swallow properly, which could lead to choking. Glucagon is a hormone that helps to raise blood sugar levels by prompting the liver to release stored glucose, making it an effective treatment in emergencies where the individual cannot ingest sugar. Intravenous dextrose provides a rapid source of glucose directly into the bloodstream, quickly alleviating hypoglycemia.

In such cases of unconsciousness due to low blood sugar, immediate and effective treatment is critical to prevent potential complications like brain damage or even death. Checking vital signs, while important in a comprehensive assessment, does not directly address the immediate danger posed by severe hypoglycemia. Thus, the best choice is to quickly administer either glucagon or IV dextrose to stabilize the patient’s condition.