If a patient responds to dextrose or glucagon, what can they receive next?

In cases where a patient responds positively to dextrose or glucagon, administering oral glucose or simple carbohydrates is the appropriate subsequent step. This response indicates that the patient is in a hypoglycemic state and that their blood glucose levels have been elevated temporarily by the initial treatment.

Providing oral glucose or simple carbohydrates helps to sustain and maintain the blood sugar levels since these substances are rapidly absorbed and can provide a necessary source of energy. It's an essential follow-up because while dextrose or glucagon can quickly address the immediate crisis of hypoglycemia, they do not provide long-term stability. Using oral glucose ensures that the patient can replenish glycogen stores and avoid a recurrence of hypoglycemia.

The other choices do not effectively address the follow-up need after initial treatment for hypoglycemia. Insulin would counteract the effects needed for someone who has just experienced low blood sugar. Water does not have any impact on raising blood sugar levels. While IV fluids can be necessary in other contexts, they do not specifically help with the management of an immediate change in blood glucose levels. Thus, the best choice focuses on sustaining the elevation in blood sugar with oral carbohydrates.