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What nursing considerations should be kept in mind when administering Insulin Isophane Suspension NPH (Humulin N, Novolin N)?

A) Monitor blood glucose levels regularly.
B) Administer the insulin via IV route only.
C) Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy.
D) Store the insulin at room temperature.
E) Always mix Insulin NPH with other insulin types in the same syringe.
F) Administer insulin immediately before a meal.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

When administering Insulin Isophane Suspension NPH, one must monitor blood glucose levels, avoid IV administration, rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy, and store it appropriately. Mixing with other insulins or timing of administration should follow specific guidelines. Insulin injections are essential for managing blood glucose levels, especially in type 1 diabetes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nursing Considerations for Administering Insulin Isophane Suspension NPH:

There are several key nursing considerations to keep in mind when administering Insulin Isophane Suspension NPH (Humulin N, Novolin N) to patients. Firstly, it is important to monitor blood glucose levels regularly to ensure that the insulin is effectively managing the patient's blood sugar. Secondly, contrary to option B, Insulin NPH should never be administered via IV route; it is intended for subcutaneous injection. Thirdly, rotating injection sites is critical to prevent lipodystrophy, which is a potential side effect characterized by changes in skin fat layers that can affect insulin absorption. Fourthly, while insulin should generally be stored in a refrigerator, once in use, a vial can be kept at room temperature to lessen injection discomfort but it must be used within the manufacturer's specified time frame or discarded accordingly.

Option E is incorrect as it is not always required to mix Insulin NPH with other insulin types in the same syringe, and specific guidelines must always be followed when mixing insulins. Lastly, the timing of administration should be in accordance with pharmacokinetic profiles and meal plans, and in many cases, Insulin NPH is given twice daily and does not need to be administered immediately before a meal like rapid-acting insulins.

Insulin injections are integral for patients managing diabetes, as they decrease blood glucose levels after a meal by allowing the transport and storage of glucose. Individuals with type 1 diabetes must particularly be vigilant in monitoring their blood sugar and administering insulin as these shots are a lifelong necessity to manage their condition.

User Tracy Snell
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