What is the recommended conscious treatment for hypoglycemia?

• A. Unconscious: glucagon intramuscularly
• B. Maintain airway and give oxygen
• C. Call 999 if no recovery
• D. Conscious: glucogel

Answer: (D)

When someone with hypoglycemia is awake and able to swallow, the goal is to raise blood glucose quickly with a fast-acting carbohydrate. Glucose gel given orally, such as glucogel, is ideal in this situation because it is absorbed rapidly through the cheek/mucosa, works quickly, and can be used without needing to drink a lot of liquid or chew tablets. After giving it, wait about 10–15 minutes and recheck for improvement; if still low or symptoms persist, repeat the dose and ensure they have a longer-acting carbohydrate afterward to help maintain levels. The other actions described (treating unconsciousness, securing the airway, or calling for emergency help if there’s no recovery) apply to other scenarios and aren’t the immediate conscious treatment.