The nurse obtains a fingerstick blood glucose using a bedside glucose meter for a client with a prescribed sliding scale insulin protocol. The meter indicates 56 mg/dL (3.12 mmol/L). Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Choice A reason: Documentation is important but not the priority when the client is hypoglycemic. Immediate treatment is required to prevent complications. Choice B reason: Sending a specimen for lab confirmation delays treatment and is not necessary when hypoglycemia is confirmed by a reliable bedside meter. Choice C reason: Administering insulin would worsen hypoglycemia and is contraindicated at this glucose level. Choice D reason: Administering a fast-acting carbohydrate is the first-line intervention for hypoglycemia. Non-diet soda provides rapid glucose absorption to correct the low blood sugar.