What it means
The name used for glucose in medicines. Oral glucose gels and tablets treat mild hypoglycemiahy-poh-gly-SEE-mee-uhA blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.hypo- belowglyc/o sugar, glucose-emia in the bloodFull entry in a client who can swallow. IV dextrose comes in different strengths: D5W (5% dextrose in water) is a common IV fluid, and 50% dextrose (D50) is pushed IV for severe low blood sugar when the client cannot swallow safely. Dextrose is also part of total parenteral nutritionTOH-tul puh-REN-ter-ul noo-TRISH-unComplete nutrition given as a liquid straight into a vein instead of through the digestive tract.par- beside, beyondenter/o intestine-al relating toFull entry .
For the nurse
For a conscious client with low blood sugar, give 15 g of fast sugar, recheck in 15 minutes and repeat if still low. Strong IV dextrose (D50) can damage the vein, so give it into a large vein that is flowing well. ISMP lists hypertonic dextrose of 20% or more as a high-alert medication.
In a chart
"Glucose 48 mg/dL, client drowsy; 25 g D50 given IV; recheck 112 mg/dL."
At a glance
| Drug class | carbohydrate; antihypoglycemic |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Glutose 15, Insta-Glucose (oral gels) |
| Spanish | dextrosa |
| Also written | Glutose, Insta-Glucose |
Related terms
hypoglycemia
A blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.
total parenteral nutrition
Complete nutrition given as a liquid straight into a vein instead of through the digestive tract.
glucose
A simple sugar that is the body's main source of energy.
glycogen
The stored form of glucose, kept mainly in the liver and muscles.