A nurse administers subcutaneous NPH insulin at 0700 to a child who has diabetes.
At which of the following times should the nurse observe for hypoglycemia caused by the onset of the medication?
A.
0715.
B.
0800.
C.
0900.
D.
1000.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. 1000.
Explanation:
NPH insulin, also known as Neutral Protamine Hagedorn insulin, is an intermediate-acting insulin used to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. Its onset, peak, and duration of action are crucial for understanding when to monitor for potential hypoglycemia.
Onset and Peak Times:
- Onset: NPH insulin typically begins to act within 1 to 2 hours after administration. This is when it starts lowering blood glucose levels.
- Peak: The peak action of NPH insulin occurs between 4 to 12 hours after injection. During this time, insulin’s blood glucose-lowering effects are at their highest.
- Duration: The effects of NPH insulin last approximately 14 to 24 hours.
Given that the nurse administered the NPH insulin at 0700, it’s essential to monitor for hypoglycemia when the insulin is most active, which is typically during its peak action. Considering the peak time frame for NPH insulin, observing for hypoglycemia should ideally be around 1000, as it falls within the peak action period (4 to 12 hours post-administration).
Timing of Hypoglycemia Risk:
- 0715: This time is too early to observe for hypoglycemia, as NPH insulin has not yet reached its peak action.
- 0800: By this time, the onset phase may have started, but it is still too early to expect significant hypoglycemic effects as the peak action is not yet reached.
- 0900: While closer to the peak action, it is still safer to monitor later to ensure any potential hypoglycemic effects are observed.
Conclusion:
To accurately monitor for hypoglycemia caused by the NPH insulin, observing around 1000 is the best option. This timing aligns with the peak action phase of NPH insulin, ensuring that the nurse can effectively detect and manage any hypoglycemic reactions that may occur.