Final answer:
If NPH insulin is given in the morning, the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia are most likely to appear in the afternoon due to its peak effect time.
Step-by-step explanation:
If NPH insulin (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn insulin) is administered in the AM (morning), you might see signs and symptoms (S&S) of hypoglycemia in the afternoon. NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin with a slower onset and a longer duration of action than regular insulin. Thus, if taken in the morning, it starts to be effective at reducing blood glucose levels within 1-2 hours after injection and has a peak effect 4-12 hours later, making the afternoon a likely time for hypoglycemia to occur. Hypoglycemia can be severe and indicates that the insulin dose for treatment of diabetes mellitus might be higher than necessary, and may require adjustment. It's also important to consider individual factors like renal function, as renal dysfunction can affect blood glucose levels.