For a patient experiencing mild hypoglycemia, what should the nurse administer immediately?

The administration of 1 tablespoon of honey is appropriate for a patient experiencing mild hypoglycemia because it contains a high concentration of glucose, which can quickly raise blood sugar levels. Honey is a simple carbohydrate that the body can rapidly metabolize, making it an effective immediate source of energy for someone with low blood sugar.

When managing mild hypoglycemia, the goal is to provide a quickly absorbable carbohydrate. Honey, in addition to its glucose content, has a liquid form that allows for quicker absorption compared to solid foods. Using honey ensures a rapid response to correct the hypoglycemic episode, making it an excellent choice for immediate treatment.

While the other choices may contain sugar or carbohydrates, they may not provide the same rapid effect. For instance, a candy bar contains not just sugar but also fats and proteins, which could slow down the absorption of glucose. Saltine crackers, being starchy, may require more time to break down into glucose in the body. Milk does contain lactose, a sugar, but it also includes protein and fat, which could delay the response time necessary to treat hypoglycemia effectively in an urgent situation. Therefore, administering honey is a more direct and efficient method to address mild hypoglycemia promptly.