Which of the following patients is most likely to be treated with intravenous glucagon ?
**Core Concept**
Glucagon is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in maintaining blood glucose levels during fasting or hypoglycemia. It stimulates glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, leading to an increase in blood glucose levels.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Intravenous glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia, particularly in patients with diabetes who are unable to take oral medications or have a delayed response to oral glucose. Glucagon acts by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose (glycogen) into the bloodstream, thereby rapidly increasing blood glucose levels. This is particularly useful in emergency situations where rapid correction of hypoglycemia is necessary.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** While glucagon is used to treat hypoglycemia, it is not typically used to treat hyperglycemia, making this option incorrect.
**Option B:** Glucagon is not used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which requires insulin therapy, making this option incorrect.
**Option C:** Glucagon is not used to treat hyperkalemia, which is typically treated with insulin, glucose, and potassium-binding agents, making this option incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Glucagon is often used in emergency situations where rapid correction of hypoglycemia is necessary, but it should be used with caution in patients with certain medical conditions, such as pheochromocytoma or thyroid disorders.
**Correct Answer: B. This patient is most likely to be treated with intravenous glucagon.**