A client receiving regular insulin is found unresponsive with a blood glucose of 30mg/dL. What is the nurse's priority action?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Increase the IV fluid infusion rate to 150 mL/hr: Increasing IV fluids may help with circulation or hydration but does not provide an immediate source of glucose to correct severe hypoglycemia. In a client who is unresponsive with a critically low blood glucose, delaying glucose administration can lead to brain injury due to inadequate cerebral glucose supply. B. Administer D50W (dextrose) 25 mL IV x 1 now: Severe hypoglycemia (glucose 30 mg/dL) with unresponsiveness requires rapid correction using IV dextrose. D50W provides a highly concentrated glucose source that quickly raises serum glucose levels and restores cerebral function, making it the most immediate and life-saving intervention. C. Administer 3 units of regular insulin x 1 now: Insulin lowers blood glucose by promoting cellular uptake of glucose, which would further worsen the already critical hypoglycemia. Administering insulin in this situation could lead to prolonged neuroglycopenia, seizures, coma, or death. D. Give 4 ounces of apple juice concentrate: Oral glucose sources are appropriate for conscious clients who can safely swallow and protect their airway. An unresponsive client is at high risk for aspiration, making oral administration unsafe and ineffective in this emergency situation.