Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

When assessing a confused 70-year-old male with diabetes, what should your initial treatment include?

1. Administering oral glucose

2. Applying a nonrebreathing mask at 15 L/min

3. Giving a dose of glucagon

4. Seeking advanced medical assistance

The correct answer is: Applying a nonrebreathing mask at 15 L/min

In this scenario, the initial treatment for a confused 70-year-old male with diabetes should focus on ensuring adequate oxygenation, particularly if there's a possibility that his confusion could be related to hypoxia. Applying a nonrebreathing mask at 15 liters per minute is critical in providing high concentrations of oxygen to ensure that the patient receives adequate respiratory support. This is especially important if the patient is disoriented and unable to clearly communicate his symptoms or history. Adequate oxygenation can help alleviate confusion stemming from hypoxia, which is a vital concern in any patient presenting with altered mental status. Additionally, given that the patient has diabetes, there may be metabolic factors at play, but restoring proper oxygen levels is a crucial first step. Other options may also be relevant but do not prioritize immediate oxygenation in this scenario. For instance, administering oral glucose could be considered later if hypoglycemia is suspected and the patient is able to swallow safely. However, if the patient's confusion stems from an oxygen deficit rather than low blood sugar, oral glucose could lead to aspiration risks. Similarly, glucagon is appropriate for treating severe hypoglycemia but may not address immediate oxygenation needs if the patient's confusion isn’t solely due to low blood sugar. Seeking