A patient received their insulin 30 minutes ago and their food tray has been delayed. What is most important for you to do next?

Bringing apple or orange juice is appropriate in this scenario because the patient has already received insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels. If their food tray is delayed, there is a risk of the patient experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Juice is a quick source of carbohydrates that can rapidly elevate blood sugar levels, helping to prevent complications associated with hypoglycemia.

While administering a glucose tablet could also be effective, juice is more palatable and may be more acceptable to the patient, especially if they are feeling unwell. Checking the patient's blood sugar is important and should eventually be done to assess their current status, but immediate action to provide carbohydrates is critical in this case. Notifying the physician may be necessary later, but the immediate priority is to prevent hypoglycemia.