DODD Ohio Category 1 Medication Administration Certification Practice Exam

Glucagon is administered as an injection in emergency situations, particularly in cases of severe hypoglycemia when a person is unable to consume food or oral glucose. The injection allows rapid delivery of the medication directly into the bloodstream, leading to increased blood sugar levels. Glucagon works by triggering the liver to release stored glucose, providing a quick and effective response to dangerous drops in blood sugar.

In emergency scenarios, quick action is critical, which makes the injection route the most efficient method for delivering glucagon. Other methods, such as oral administration or nasal spray, would not provide the immediate effect required in a medical emergency, especially since individuals experiencing severe hypoglycemia may be unconscious or unable to swallow safely. Additionally, intravenous administration, while effective, is less practical in emergency situations outside of a hospital setting, where injections can be easily administered by trained personnel.