Glucose - Oral - Pediatric: Neonates (0-4 weeks) with hypoglycemia or pediatric patients (>4 weeks) with glucose below thresholds. Dose: one tube for patients with an intact gag reflex. What is the neonate’s recommended oral glucose dose?

• A. One tube
• B. Two tubes
• C. Half tube
• D. No glucose

Answer: (A)

The important idea here is using a safe, fixed oral glucose dose when the patient can protect their airway. For neonates with hypoglycemia who have an intact gag reflex, one tube of oral glucose gel is the recommended initial dose. This single-dose approach delivers enough glucose quickly to raise blood sugar without risking overshoot or aspiration, since the tube provides a measured amount that is appropriate for a small infant. If glucose remains low after the initial dose, follow the protocol’s guidance for rechecking and repeating doses or using an alternative route, but starting with one tube is the standard for neonates with a protected airway. Giving two tubes risks too much glucose and potential complications, while a half tube may not raise the level adequately, and giving no glucose would leave the hypoglycemia untreated.