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Administering intravenous (IV) dextrose is the appropriate immediate action for an unconscious patient suffering from hypoglycemia. When an individual is unconscious, they are unable to safely swallow or absorb oral glucose or high-carbohydrate foods, which could pose a risk of aspiration or further complicating their condition.

IV dextrose provides a rapid and effective means of quickly raising the blood glucose level. It ensures that the patient receives an immediate supply of glucose directly into the bloodstream, which is critical in an emergency situation where time is of the essence. An unconscious patient needs prompt intervention to prevent potential neurological damage or other complications associated with prolonged hypoglycemia.

In contrast, oral glucose and high-carbohydrate foods are not safe for an unconscious patient because they cannot swallow, making these options impractical and potentially dangerous. Cortisone injections are not indicated in this scenario, as they do not directly address the acute need for glucose and may take time to have an effect. Thus, IV dextrose is the most effective and safest approach in this critical situation.