A nurse is teaching a client who is newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus about insulin safety. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?
Insulin is stable at room temperature for one month.
Insulins can be mixed in the same syringe.
Storing insulin in the freezer will prolong its stability.
Clients with type 1 diabetes mellitus should keep backup medication and supplies in their car.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Insulin is stable at room temperature (between 59°F and 86°F) for up to one month. This is important for patients to know, especially if they do not have immediate access to refrigeration. However, it is crucial to avoid exposing insulin to extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight or freezing conditions, as these can degrade the medication’s effectiveness.
Choice B Reason:
While some types of insulin can be mixed in the same syringe, this practice is not universally applicable to all insulin types. For example, rapid-acting and intermediate-acting insulins can sometimes be mixed, but long-acting insulins should not be mixed with other insulins. Therefore, this statement is not entirely accurate and should be clarified based on the specific types of insulin being used.
Choice C Reason:
Storing insulin in the freezer is not recommended as freezing can damage the insulin, rendering it ineffective. Insulin should be stored in a refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F. If insulin is accidentally frozen, it should not be used.
Choice D Reason:
While it is advisable for clients with type 1 diabetes to have backup medication and supplies, storing them in a car is not recommended due to the potential for extreme temperature fluctuations. Insulin and other diabetes supplies should be kept in a stable, controlled environment to ensure their efficacy.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
This statement is incorrect because a hemoglobin A1C level of 9% indicates that the client’s blood sugar levels have been consistently high over the past two to three months. Hemoglobin A1C is a measure of average blood glucose levels, not low blood sugar levels. Therefore, it would be inappropriate to suggest that the client has dangerously low blood sugar levels based on this result.
Choice B Reason:
This statement is correct because a hemoglobin A1C level of 9% indicates that the client’s average blood sugar levels are high. Hemoglobin A1C reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. A normal A1C level is below 5.7%, while an A1C level between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and an A1C level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes. Therefore, an A1C level of 9% clearly shows that the client’s average blood sugar is high.
Choice C Reason:
This statement is partially correct but not the most appropriate. While it is true that a high hemoglobin A1C level can indicate that blood sugar levels are high after meals, it is not specific enough. Hemoglobin A1C measures the average blood glucose levels over a period of time, not just after meals. Therefore, the statement “Your average blood sugar is high” is more accurate and appropriate.
Choice D Reason:
This statement is incorrect because it is too vague and does not provide specific information about the client’s blood sugar levels. While a high hemoglobin A1C level can indicate variability in blood sugar levels, it primarily reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. Therefore, it would be more appropriate to state that the client’s average blood sugar is high.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While monitoring the frequency of urination is important for managing diabetes insipidus, it is not the most critical aspect of discharge teaching. Diabetes insipidus causes excessive urination, and patients should be aware of this symptom. However, understanding the importance of wearing a medical alert bracelet is more crucial for ensuring immediate and appropriate care in emergencies.
Choice B Reason:
Changes in appetite are not a primary concern for patients with diabetes insipidus. The condition primarily affects fluid balance and urine output rather than appetite. Therefore, this topic is less relevant compared to the need for a medical alert bracelet.
Choice C Reason:
The benefit of a medical alert bracelet is paramount for patients with diabetes insipidus. In case of an emergency, the bracelet can inform healthcare providers about the patient’s condition, ensuring they receive appropriate and timely treatment. This can be life-saving, especially if the patient is unable to communicate their medical history.
Choice D Reason:
Weight gain or loss can be a secondary concern for patients with diabetes insipidus, as the condition primarily affects fluid balance. While it is important to monitor weight to assess fluid status, it is not as critical as ensuring the patient understands the importance of wearing a medical alert bracelet.
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