Which of the following is a contraindication to giving oral glucose?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hyperglycemia, unable to swallow or follow commands, ALOC, N/V
• C. Normal glucose level
• D. Allergic reaction to water

Answer: (B)

Oral glucose is used only for a conscious patient who can swallow and protect their airway. It should not be given if the patient cannot swallow or follow commands, because the medicine could be aspirated and won’t be absorbed properly. Vomiting or a risk of aspiration further makes it unsafe. It’s also not appropriate if the person is already hyperglycemic, since adding sugar would worsen high blood glucose. The described scenario—hyperglycemia plus an inability to swallow or follow commands, with altered mental status or vomiting—covers the main reasons to withhold oral glucose, making it the contraindication. Hypoglycemia is exactly what oral glucose treats, a normal glucose level means there’s no need for glucose, and an allergic reaction to water isn’t a valid clinical contraindication.