A nurse administers subcutaneous NPH insulin at 0700 to a child who has diabetes.
At which of the following times should the nurse observe for hypoglycemia caused by the onset of the medication?
0715.
0800.
0900.
1000.
The Correct Answer is B
NPH insulin has an onset of action of about 1 to 2 hours, peaks in 4 to 12 hours, and lasts up to 24 hours. Given the administration at 0700, the onset of action would typically occur between 0800 and 0900. Hypoglycemia is most likely to occur during the onset or peak periods due to the insulin's glucose-lowering effect.
Among the options:
- A. 0715: Too early, as NPH insulin's onset is not within 15 minutes.
- B. 0800: Within the onset window (1 hour after administration), making it a plausible time to observe for hypoglycemia.
- C. 0900: Also within the onset window (2 hours after administration), another reasonable time to monitor.
- D. 1000: Slightly beyond the typical onset but still early in the action profile, where hypoglycemia could occur if glucose levels drop.
Since the question asks for the time to observe for hypoglycemia caused by the onset, the earliest time within the onset window is most appropriate. Thus, B. 0800 is the best answer, as it aligns with the start of NPH insulin’s onset period.
Final Answer: B. 0800
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Unopened vials of insulin should be kept in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) 1.
This helps to ensure that the insulin remains safe and effective until its expiration date.
Choice A is incorrect because insulin injected into the abdomen is absorbed more rapidly than insulin injected into other areas such as the thigh.
Choice B is incorrect because insulin should not be shaken vigorously as this can cause it to break down and become less effective.
Instead, gently roll the bottle between your hands to mix it.
Choice D is incorrect because not all types of insulin can be mixed together in the same syringe.
Only certain types of insulin can be mixed together and this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
“Inject the medication into the abdomen above the level of the iliac crest.” When administering heparin subcutaneously, it is appropriate to inject the medication into the abdomen above the level of the iliac crest 1.
Choice A is not correct because a 1-inch needle may be too long for subcutaneous injection.
A shorter needle, such as a 3/8 to 5/8 inch needle, is typically used for subcutaneous injections.
Choice B is not correct because a 22-gauge needle may be too large for subcutaneous injection.
A smaller gauge needle, such as a 25- or 27-gauge needle, is typically used for subcutaneous injections.
Choice C is not correct because massaging the injection site after administering heparin can increase the risk of bruising and should be avoided.
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