Where should oral glucose be administered?

Oral glucose should be administered between the gum and cheek or under the tongue because this method allows for quick absorption of the glucose into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth. This route is particularly effective for patients experiencing hypoglycemia, as it bypasses the digestive tract, leading to a faster elevation of blood sugar levels compared to conventional oral ingestion methods.

Administering oral glucose in this way is designed to optimize its effectiveness and provide rapid relief from low blood sugar. When placed between the gum and cheek, the glucose can dissolve and enter the bloodstream more directly. This is especially important in emergency situations where time is critical and immediate action is required to alleviate symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Other methods, such as administering glucose directly into the throat or mixing it with water, are not recommended in emergency protocols due to the risk of choking and slower absorption rates, respectively.