Which of the following is a contraindication for oral glucose administration?

• A. Suspected head injury/stroke
• B. Inability to safely swallow (Unresponsive/Decreased level of consciousness)
• C. Normal swallowing ability
• D. Recent high sugar intake

Answer: (B)

Oral glucose should only be given to a patient who can safely swallow and protect their airway. The main reason is the risk of aspirating the glucose into the lungs if the person is unable to swallow or is unconscious. In this situation, administration is contraindicated because airway protection cannot be assured. If the patient is alert and can swallow, oral glucose is appropriate. A head injury or stroke is not a universal contraindication by itself—as long as the patient can swallow and maintain airway. Recent high sugar intake does not prevent giving glucose in a hypoglycemic emergency. The key idea is ensuring the patient can swallow safely to avoid aspiration.