Oral glucose is indicated for what type of patient?

Oral glucose is specifically indicated for patients who are conscious but disoriented and have a blood sugar level below 60 mg/dL. This condition typically suggests hypoglycemia, where the blood glucose level is critically low, potentially leading to confusion or altered mental status. Administering oral glucose can help raise the blood sugar levels, correcting the hypoglycemic state and ultimately improving the patient's alertness and cognitive function.

In contrast, patients with blood sugar levels above 60 mg/dL are less likely to benefit from oral glucose, as they are not hypoglycemic. Unconscious patients or those who are unresponsive cannot safely swallow oral medications, including glucose, due to the risk of aspiration, making it inappropriate to administer oral glucose in such scenarios.