If a person with a history of type 2 diabetes is acting confused, what should you encourage them to do?

Encouraging a person with a history of type 2 diabetes who is acting confused to swallow oral glucose is the appropriate action because it directly addresses the potential issue of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. When a person with diabetes experiences confusion, it is often a symptom of this condition. In such cases, providing a quick source of glucose is critical for raising blood sugar levels swiftly, which can help alleviate confusion and prevent more severe complications.

Oral glucose is specifically formulated to rapidly increase blood sugar and can be easily absorbed, making it a suitable choice for managing mild to moderate hypoglycemia. It's important that the person can swallow without difficulty; otherwise, an alternative method may be necessary.

Eating a meal immediately might not quickly resolve a hypoglycemic episode, as it takes longer for food to be digested and glucose to enter the bloodstream. While drinking water is beneficial for hydration, it does not address low blood sugar levels. Similarly, taking insulin would not be appropriate in this scenario, as the individual may already be experiencing too low blood sugar levels, and additional insulin could exacerbate the problem. Thus, offering oral glucose stands out as the most effective and immediate intervention for the symptoms described.