What should be assessed in an unresponsive patient found with antifreeze?

• A. Blood glucose level
• B. Cardiac monitor
• C. Blood pressure
• D. Respiratory status

Answer: (A)

In cases of unresponsiveness in a patient who has been exposed to antifreeze, assessing the blood glucose level is crucial because hypoglycemia can mimic or exacerbate the central nervous system depression caused by toxic substances like antifreeze. Unresponsive patients can have altered mental status stemming from various causes, including metabolic imbalances. Checking the blood glucose level helps to rule out hypoglycemia as a reversible cause of unresponsiveness.

While monitoring respiratory status, cardiac function, and blood pressure are also important components of patient assessment, determining blood glucose first can quickly identify whether a life-threatening metabolic issue is present and address it urgently. Therefore, assessing blood glucose is often prioritized in this scenario.