After administering the client’s 0730 prescribed dose of regular insulin per a sliding scale, which action by the practical nurse (PN) has the highest priority?

Choice A reason: Suggesting a snack after administering an incorrect insulin dose risks hypoglycemia, as 2 extra units can excessively lower blood glucose. Insulin dosing must match the glucose level per the sliding scale to prevent adverse effects, making this choice unsafe and reactive.

Choice B reason: Repeating the glucose level is unnecessary if the recorded level is reliable. The error lies in the drawn dose, not the glucose measurement. Correcting the dose to match the recorded glucose is more direct, as insulin dosing relies on accurate glucose data.

Choice C reason: Reducing the insulin dose by 2 units corrects the error, aligning with the sliding scale for the recorded glucose level. Excess insulin can cause hypoglycemia, affecting brain and organ function. This action ensures safe administration, preventing potentially severe metabolic consequences.

Choice D reason: Recording the discrepancy does not correct the dosing error and risks administering an unsafe dose. Documentation is secondary to ensuring the correct insulin amount is given, as 2 extra units could lead to hypoglycemia, requiring immediate correction, not just notation.

Choice A reason: Instructing the UAP to bring a breakfast tray ensures nutritional support but is not the highest priority. Regular insulin peaks within 2–4 hours, risking hypoglycemia if not monitored. Observing for hypoglycemic symptoms takes precedence to ensure immediate safety post-administration.

Choice B reason: Observing for pallor, diaphoresis, or fatigue is critical, as these indicate hypoglycemia, a serious risk after regular insulin administration. Insulin lowers blood glucose, and rapid drops can impair brain function or cause seizures. Monitoring for these signs ensures timely intervention, prioritizing client safety.

Choice C reason: Measuring vital signs and oxygen saturation provides general data but is less specific than monitoring for hypoglycemia symptoms. Regular insulin’s rapid action increases hypoglycemic risk, and symptoms like diaphoresis are more direct indicators, making this choice secondary to targeted observation.

Choice D reason: Notifying the charge nurse of the insulin dose is routine but not urgent. The priority is monitoring for hypoglycemia, as regular insulin can cause rapid glucose drops, leading to serious complications. Immediate client observation outweighs administrative tasks in ensuring safety.