How should a patient with a blood glucose level (BGL) of 360 be treated?

How should a patient with a blood glucose level (BGL) of 360 be treated?

• A. Administer insulin
• B. Send for immediate medical consult
• C. Provide sugar-free fluids
• D. Monitor the patient for symptoms

Answer: (B)

In a case where a patient has a blood glucose level of 360 mg/dL, the most appropriate immediate action is to send for an immediate medical consult. This is crucial because a blood glucose level this high typically signifies hyperglycemia, which can be a severe condition and potentially indicate diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, particularly if the patient is showing symptoms or has a history of diabetes. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to assess the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment, such as administering insulin, which must be done under medical supervision to ensure the correct dosage and to monitor for any potential complications. The patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly, making prompt consultation essential for safety. Monitoring the patient for symptoms and providing sugar-free fluids may be part of standard care, but they do not address the critical need for professional medical assistance in the face of such a significantly elevated BGL. Administering insulin without a medical consult can also pose risks, as the right approach and dosage depend on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition. Therefore, seeking immediate medical advice stands out as the best course of action in this scenario.

In a case where a patient has a blood glucose level of 360 mg/dL, the most appropriate immediate action is to send for an immediate medical consult. This is crucial because a blood glucose level this high typically signifies hyperglycemia, which can be a severe condition and potentially indicate diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, particularly if the patient is showing symptoms or has a history of diabetes.

Immediate medical intervention is necessary to assess the underlying cause and begin appropriate treatment, such as administering insulin, which must be done under medical supervision to ensure the correct dosage and to monitor for any potential complications. The patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly, making prompt consultation essential for safety.

Monitoring the patient for symptoms and providing sugar-free fluids may be part of standard care, but they do not address the critical need for professional medical assistance in the face of such a significantly elevated BGL. Administering insulin without a medical consult can also pose risks, as the right approach and dosage depend on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition. Therefore, seeking immediate medical advice stands out as the best course of action in this scenario.