A nurse is preparing regular and NPH insulin in the same syringe for a client who has diabetes mellitus.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer the mixture within 5 minutes of preparing it.
Inject air into the regular insulin vial before injecting air into the NPH vial.
Withdraw the NPH insulin before the regular insulin.
Shake both insulin vials for 2 minutes before withdrawing the doses.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Regular insulin is a rapid-acting insulin, and NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin. When mixed in the same syringe, the regular insulin molecules can bind to the protamine in the NPH suspension. This can alter the absorption profile of the regular insulin, delaying its onset of action. Administering the mixture within 5 minutes prevents this molecular interaction and ensures the regular insulin retains its rapid-acting properties.
Choice B rationale
It is crucial to inject air into the NPH insulin vial first, followed by the regular insulin vial, and then withdraw the regular insulin dose before the NPH. This specific order prevents the NPH from contaminating the regular insulin vial with protamine, which would alter the potency and action profile of the regular insulin for future use. The regular insulin is then drawn up first.
Choice C rationale
The correct procedure is to withdraw the regular insulin before the NPH insulin. The sequence is to inject air into both vials, then draw up the clear, rapid-acting regular insulin first, followed by the cloudy, intermediate-acting NPH insulin. This sequence is essential to prevent contamination of the regular insulin vial with the NPH insulin, which could affect its rapid-acting properties.
Choice D rationale
Shaking insulin vials is generally discouraged as it can lead to the formation of air bubbles, which can result in an inaccurate dose. Instead of shaking, the NPH insulin vial should be gently rolled between the palms of the hands. This action warms the insulin and resuspends the particles uniformly without causing bubbles, ensuring an accurate and consistent dose is administered. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This location, the second intercostal space at the right sternal border, corresponds to the aortic valve area. Auscultation here allows the nurse to assess the sounds produced by the aortic valve, which are distinct from the mitral valve sounds. These sounds are generated as blood is ejected from the left ventricle into the aorta during systole.
Choice B rationale
The second intercostal space at the left sternal border is the correct anatomical location for auscultating the pulmonic valve. The pulmonic valve separates the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery, and listening here allows the nurse to assess the sounds of blood flow into the pulmonary circulation.
Choice C rationale
The fifth intercostal space at the left midclavicular line is the point of maximal impulse (PMI), also known as the apical pulse, which is the anatomical location for the mitral valve. This is the optimal site for auscultating the S1 and S2 heart sounds, as well as any murmurs or abnormal sounds associated with the mitral valve's function.
Choice D rationale
This location, the fourth intercostal space at the left sternal border, is the anatomical location for the tricuspid valve. Auscultation in this area allows the nurse to assess the sounds generated by the tricuspid valve, which regulates blood flow between the right atrium and the right ventricle. *.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Scant lochia rubra with a few small clots is a normal finding at 2 days postpartum. Lochia rubra, which is dark red discharge, is expected during the first 3-4 days. Scant bleeding and small clots are considered normal and indicate the uterine healing process is progressing appropriately. Excessive bleeding or large clots would be cause for concern.
Choice B rationale
Bilateral ankle edema is a common and expected finding at 2 days postpartum. This is due to the mobilization of fluid retained during pregnancy and the effects of gravity. While it should be monitored, it typically resolves on its own. The nurse should assess for other signs of a more serious condition, such as unilateral leg swelling, pain, or redness, which could indicate a deep vein thrombosis.
Choice C rationale
A urine output of 2,500 mL/day is within the expected range for a postpartum client. Diuresis is a normal physiological process during the first few days after birth, as the body eliminates the excess fluid volume accumulated during pregnancy. Urine output typically ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 mL/day, indicating adequate kidney function and fluid mobilization.
Choice D rationale
Deep-tendon reflexes of 4+ are a hyperreflexic finding that can indicate a neurological complication, such as preeclampsia. Normal deep-tendon reflexes are typically 1+ to 2+. Hyperreflexia is a sign of central nervous system irritability and can precede seizure activity, making it a critical finding that requires immediate reporting to the provider for further assessment and intervention. .
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