A patient with a suspected myocardial infarction is in the emergency department. The nurse is preparing to administer 325 mg of aspirin.
What action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Glipizide does not directly enhance glucose transport into the muscles. This action is primarily mediated by insulin, which increases the expression of glucose transporter proteins (GLUT4) on muscle cell membranes, facilitating glucose uptake.

While glipizide can indirectly improve glucose transport into muscles by increasing insulin levels, it's not the primary mechanism of action.

Choice B rationale:

Glipizide does not directly facilitate glucose utilization by body cells. This process also largely depends on insulin, which activates intracellular pathways that promote glucose metabolism and energy production.

Although glipizide can indirectly enhance glucose utilization by increasing insulin availability, it's not the main mechanism responsible for its glucose-lowering effects.

Choice C rationale:

Glipizide does not boost glucose levels. In fact, it has the opposite effect, lowering blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin secretion.

Elevating glucose levels would be counterproductive in diabetes management, as the goal is to maintain blood glucose within a healthy range.

Choice D rationale (correct answer):

Glipizide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas, which act primarily by stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells.

Insulin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It promotes glucose uptake by various tissues, including muscles, liver, and adipose tissue, and it inhibits glucose production by the liver.

By triggering insulin release, glipizide effectively lowers blood glucose levels. This helps to prevent the long-term complications of diabetes, such as damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs.

Choice A rationale:

Insulin is a protein-based hormone that is sensitive to heat and light. Exposure to high temperatures or direct sunlight can cause insulin to break down and become less effective.

Refrigeration helps to maintain the stability and potency of insulin. It is generally recommended to store unopened insulin vials in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C).

This temperature range helps to slow down the degradation process and ensure that the insulin remains effective until its expiration date.

Choice B rationale:

Insulin should never be frozen. Freezing can cause the insulin to crystallize and become unusable. Once insulin has been frozen, it cannot be thawed and used again.

Choice C rationale:

Opened vials of insulin do not need to be discarded immediately. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 28 days, depending on the type of insulin.

However, it is important to note the date that the vial was opened and to discard it after the recommended storage period.

Choice D rationale:

Insulin pens should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some insulin pens can be stored at room temperature for a certain period of time, while others must be refrigerated.

It is important to read the instructions that come with the insulin pen to ensure that it is stored properly.