A 55-year-old patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted to the hospital and is on NPH insulin. The patient experiences symptoms of hypoglycemia. At what time after administration of NPH insulin should the nurse be most vigilant for signs of hypoglycemia due to the peak action of the insulin?
18-24 hours after administration
4-12 hours after administration
12-18 hours after administration
1-2 hours after administration
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that typically has a duration of action of about 12 to 16 hours. The peak action, however, occurs much earlier, making 18-24 hours after administration an incorrect choice for the peak time of hypoglycemia risk.
Choice B Reason:
NPH insulin generally peaks 4 to 12 hours after administration This is the period when the insulin is most effective at lowering blood glucose levels, and therefore, the time when the patient is at the highest risk for hypoglycemia. Monitoring for signs of hypoglycemia during this window is crucial to ensure patient safety.
Choice C Reason:
While NPH insulin can have effects lasting up to 16 hours, the peak action occurs earlier, between 4 to 12 hours. Therefore, 12-18 hours after administration is not the correct time frame for the peak action of NPH insulin.
Choice D Reason:
NPH insulin starts to act within 1 to 2 hours after administration, but this is not the peak time. The peak action, when the risk of hypoglycemia is highest, occurs later, between 4 to 12 hours after administration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Testing blood glucose levels every 6 hours during illness is crucial for managing type 1 diabetes. Illness can cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate unpredictably, and frequent monitoring helps in making timely adjustments to insulin doses and dietary intake. This practice helps prevent both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, ensuring better overall control of diabetes during periods of illness.
Choice B Reason:
Administering the usual daily dose of insulin is important even during illness. Skipping insulin doses can lead to dangerously high blood glucose levels and increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). It is essential to continue taking insulin as prescribed and to consult with a healthcare provider if any adjustments are needed based on blood glucose readings.
Choice C Reason:
Limiting juices, soda, and gelatin is not typically recommended during illness for patients with type 1 diabetes. These items can be useful for maintaining hydration and providing quick sources of carbohydrates if the patient is unable to eat solid foods. Instead of limiting these items, it is more important to monitor carbohydrate intake and adjust insulin doses accordingly.
Choice D Reason:
Reporting a blood glucose level greater than 300 is critical for preventing complications. High blood glucose levels can indicate the onset of DKA, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Promptly reporting elevated blood glucose levels allows for timely intervention and management to prevent severe complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Prescription glasses can help improve vision in the early stages of cataracts by compensating for changes in the lens. However, they do not treat the underlying condition. As cataracts progress, glasses become less effective, and surgery becomes necessary to restore clear vision.
Choice B Reason:
Laser therapy is not used to dissolve cataracts. Instead, it is sometimes used after cataract surgery to treat a condition called posterior capsule opacification, which can occur months or years after the initial surgery. This procedure, known as YAG laser capsulotomy, helps to clear the vision but does not address the primary cataract.
Choice C Reason:
Anti-inflammatory eye drops can be used to manage inflammation and discomfort associated with cataracts or cataract surgery. However, they do not treat or remove the cataract itself. These drops are often part of the post-operative care following cataract surgery.
Choice D Reason:
Cataract surgery is the most effective treatment for cataracts. During the procedure, the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). This surgery significantly improves vision and is considered the definitive treatment for cataracts.
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