Which of the following statements about the administration of dextrose to the patient with a traumatic brain injury is TRUE?
A) Hypoglycemia is associated with a poorer neurologic outcome; if the blood glucose level is less than 60 mg/dL, administer 25 grams of dextrose.
B) Hypoglycemia is inconsequential to neurologic outcome; assessing the blood glucose level is not a priority.
C) Hyperglycemia is associated with a poorer neurologic outcome; never administer dextrose to a patient with traumatic brain injury.
D) Hypoglycemia is associated with a poorer neurologic outcome. All patients with suspected traumatic brain injury who have an altered mental status should receive 25 grams of dextrose intravenously.
A
Health Professions