A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for NPH insulin 10 units and regular insulin 15 units subcutaneously. After injecting 10 units of air into the NPH insulin vial, which of the following actions should the nurse take next?
Verify the dosage with another nurse.
Inject 15 units of air into the regular insulin vial.
Withdraw 10 units of NPH insulin.
Place the cap over the needle.
The Correct Answer is B
This step is part of the process when mixing NPH and regular insulin in a single syringe. After injecting air into the NPH insulin vial, you should inject an equal amount of air (in this case, 15 units) into the regular insulin vial to maintain pressure balance. This allows for easy withdrawal of the prescribed doses of each insulin type in the same syringe without causing a vacuum in the vials.
After injecting air into the NPH insulin vial (step 1), the nurse should proceed to inject air into the regular insulin vial (step 2) before withdrawing the insulin doses in the subsequent steps.
Verifying the dosage with another nurse is not necessary in this step, as it is done prior to drawing up the insulin. However, it is good practice to have another nurse double-check the dosage before administration.
Injecting air into the regular insulin vial is not required at this stage. It is only necessary when withdrawing the regular insulin dose.
Placing the cap over the needle should be done after withdrawing the desired dose of insulin and before administering it to the client for safety and to prevent needlestick injuries.
The correct sequence when mixing NPH and regular insulin in a single syringe is as follows:
- Inject air into the NPH insulin vial (in this case, 10 units of air).
- Inject air into the regular insulin vial (in this case, 15 units of air).
- Withdraw the prescribed dose of NPH insulin (10 units) from the NPH vial.
- Withdraw the prescribed dose of regular insulin (15 units) from the regular insulin vial.
So, after injecting air into the NPH insulin vial (step 1), the nurse should proceed to inject air into the regular insulin vial (step 2) before withdrawing the insulin doses in the subsequent steps.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Wearing shoes with rubber soles can minimize noise and provide a quieter environment for the clients. It helps reduce disruptions caused by footsteps, especially during nighttime when clients are trying to sleep.
Conducting change-of-shift report near the clients' rooms can lead to increased noise levels and disturb clients' sleep. It is best to conduct report in a designated area away from patient rooms to minimize disruptions.
Overhead lights should be avoided during nighttime or sleep hours as they are bright and can disrupt a client's sleep. Instead, nurses should use a low-intensity light or a flashlight to check IV lines or attend to other needs. This helps minimize disruptions to the client's rest.
Opening curtains between clients in semiprivate rooms can compromise privacy and contribute to increased noise levels. It is important to provide privacy for clients, especially during their rest periods.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Herpes simplex is a viral infection that causes skin eruptions or lesions. To promote healing and prevent secondary infections, it is important to keep the affected area clean. Cleansing the skin eruptions with povidone-iodine, an antiseptic solution, can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

The other options are incorrect:
A. Over-the-counter topical ointments are generally not recommended for the treatment of herpes simplex outbreaks. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate medication and treatment options.
C.Herpes simplex is a viral infection, and antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like herpes simplex.
D. Placing disposable thermometers in the client's room is not directly related to the management of a herpes simplex outbreak. It is important to focus on interventions specific to the client's condition.
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