North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is a serious contraindication for administering oral glucose?

1. Diabetes diagnosis

2. Unconsciousness

3. Inability to breathe

4. Excessive hunger

The correct answer is: Unconsciousness

Administering oral glucose is intended for patients who are conscious and able to safely swallow, as it is a quick source of energy for those experiencing hypoglycemia. Unconsciousness in a patient indicates that they are unable to protect their airway or swallow safely. If oral glucose is given to an unconscious patient, there is a substantial risk of aspiration, which can lead to airway obstruction and potential respiratory distress. Thus, unconsciousness is a serious contraindication for the administration of oral glucose because safety and the patient's ability to respond to the medication are critical factors. In contrast, having a diabetes diagnosis does not automatically mean that the patient cannot receive oral glucose, as it is often used to treat low blood sugar episodes. Inability to breathe points more towards a general emergency rather than a specific contraindication for oral glucose, and excessive hunger does not impact the safety or effectiveness of oral glucose. Therefore, the key issue with unconsciousness is the risk of aspiration and the inability to swallow, which makes this the serious contraindication.