Final answer:
There are different types of insulin, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulin, which vary in their onset and duration of action. The choice of insulin depends on the individual's needs and blood glucose levels. It is important for healthcare professionals to consider the action and nursing considerations when administering specific types of insulin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Insulin
Rapid-acting insulin: Examples include insulin lispro, insulin aspart, and insulin glulisine. It has a rapid onset of action, typically within 15 minutes, and lasts for about 3-5 hours.
Short-acting insulin: Regular insulin is an example of short-acting insulin. It has an onset of action of about 30 minutes and lasts for around 6-8 hours.
Intermediate-acting insulin: Examples include NPH insulin and insulin detemir. It has a slower onset of action, usually within 1-2 hours, and lasts for approximately 12-18 hours.
Long-acting insulin: Examples include insulin glargine and insulin degludec. It has a slow and steady release, providing a basal insulin level for 24 hours or longer.
Action and Nursing Considerations
Rapid-acting insulin: It is used to cover mealtime glucose spikes. It should be administered shortly before or right after a meal.
Short-acting insulin: It is used to control blood glucose levels between meals and during the night. It is typically given 30 minutes before a meal.
Intermediate-acting insulin: It typically requires two daily injections to provide basal coverage. It should not be mixed with other insulins in the same syringe.
Long-acting insulin: It provides a steady insulin level throughout the day. It is typically administered once daily at the same time.