Glucagon carried for emergency use by a family for a client with diabetes should be used to treat which condition?

• A. Diabetic ketoacidosis
• B. Hyperglycemia from insufficient insulin
• C. Hyperglycemia occurring on sick days
• D. Hypoglycemia from insulin overdose

Answer: (B)

Glucagon is used in emergency care to raise blood glucose during a severe hypoglycemic episode when the person cannot safely swallow or when IV glucose isn’t readily available. It works by signaling the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream (glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis), so blood sugar rises quickly and the person can regain consciousness and responsiveness.

Because its job is to increase glucose, glucagon is specifically for hypoglycemia—such as hypoglycemia from insulin overdose or missed meals. It isn’t for high blood sugar conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis or other forms of hyperglycemia, which require insulin, fluids, and electrolyte management. So the correct context for using glucagon is hypoglycemia caused by too much insulin.