Insulin Injections and Delegation

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Questions and Answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client with diabetes mellitus. Which of the following actions is most crucial to ensure client safety during this procedure?

  • Mixing different types of insulin in the same syringe to reduce the number of injections.
  • Administering the insulin at a consistent anatomical site to promote predictable absorption.
  • Confirming the client's identity using two unique identifiers and verifying allergy status. (correct)
  • Warming the insulin vial to body temperature before drawing up the dose.

The registered nurse (RN) is delegating tasks to a practical nurse (PN) and an assistive personnel (AP). Which task related to insulin administration is appropriate to delegate to the PN?

  • Monitoring the client for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia after insulin administration.
  • Drawing up and administering the prescribed dose of insulin to a stable client. (correct)
  • Assessing the client's understanding of their insulin regimen and potential side effects.
  • Educating the client and family about proper insulin storage and injection techniques.

A nurse is preparing an insulin injection and notes air bubbles in the syringe. What is the most appropriate nursing action to address this situation?

  • Disregard the air bubbles if they are small, as they will be absorbed by the body.
  • Firmly tap the syringe barrel to move the air bubbles to the top, then expel the air. (correct)
  • Inject the air bubbles into the subcutaneous tissue, as they will not cause harm.
  • Expel a small amount of insulin into the vial to compensate for the air bubbles.

A nurse is administering insulin to a client and is unsure about which injection site to use. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?

<p>Choose a site that has not been used recently, is free from abnormalities, and rotate sites systematically. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After administering an insulin injection, the nurse observes blood at the injection site. What is the most appropriate initial nursing action?

<p>Apply firm pressure to the injection site for 5-10 seconds with a gloved finger or gauze without massaging. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is most important for the nurse to take immediately after administering an insulin injection?

<p>Engage the safety shield on the needle and discard the syringe in a sharps container. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is teaching a client about insulin self-administration. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

<p>“I can mix any type of insulin together in one syringe to reduce the number of injections.” (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client receiving insulin reports sweating, shaking, and confusion. What is the nurse's priority action?

<p>Check the client's blood glucose level immediately. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin from a multi-dose vial. What is the most important step to ensure the medication's continued efficacy?

<p>Label the vial with the date and time it was opened, and store it according to facility policy. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is reviewing a client's medication administration record (MAR) before administering insulin. Which of the following elements is most critical to verify?

<p>The medication name, dose, route, and time of administration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client. Prior to administering the medication, what assessment finding would warrant withholding the insulin and contacting the provider?

<p>The client's blood glucose level is 60 mg/dL. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing education to a client newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus who will be self-administering insulin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of proper injection technique?

<p>“I should pinch the skin when using a longer needle and release the skinfold after the needle is in.” (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client and notes that the client received an oral hypoglycemic medication earlier in the day. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

<p>Check the client's blood glucose level and consult with the provider before administering the insulin. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving insulin therapy. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as an indication that the client is experiencing hyperglycemia?

<p>Increased thirst and increased urination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client. The nurse notes that the client’s abdomen has multiple areas of lipohypertrophy. Which action is most appropriate?

<p>Select a new injection site away from the areas of lipohypertrophy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client. The nurse draws up the insulin, then is called away to assist with an emergency in another room. What action should the nurse take?

<p>Discard the syringe with the insulin and prepare a new dose when able to return. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is administering insulin to an older adult client with decreased subcutaneous tissue. At what angle should the nurse administer the injection?

<p>45-degree angle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is teaching a client about the proper storage of insulin. Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the instructions?

<p>“I should protect my insulin from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.” (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prior to administering insulin, the nurse reviews the client's orders and notes the prescription reads: 'Administer 10 units of insulin lispro AC.' What does 'AC' indicate in this order?

<p>Administer the insulin before meals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client with diabetes mellitus who is scheduled to receive insulin. The nurse understands that which laboratory value is most important to review before administering the insulin?

<p>Fasting blood glucose (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client who is at risk for hypoglycemia. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

<p>Ensure a source of দ্রুত-acting carbohydrate is readily available. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is administering insulin to a client with a known allergy to alcohol. Which action is most appropriate?

<p>Use a facility-approved non-alcohol-based antiseptic wipe to cleanse the injection site. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who will be self-administering insulin at home. Which of the following instructions is most important to include?

<p>You should monitor your blood glucose levels regularly and keep a log of the results. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client and notes that the insulin vial is cloudy. What action should the nurse take?

<p>Discard the vial and obtain a new one. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is administering insulin to a client who is NPO (nothing by mouth) due to a scheduled surgical procedure. What is the most appropriate action?

<p>Hold the insulin and notify the provider for further instructions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client. The nurse notices that the date on the multi-dose vial of insulin indicates that it expired 1 week ago. What action should the nurse take?

<p>Discard the vial and obtain a new, unexpired vial of insulin. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is delegating the task of blood glucose monitoring to assistive personnel (AP). Which instruction is most important for the nurse to provide to the AP?

<p>Instruct the AP to report any blood glucose levels outside of the target range immediately. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client who also takes warfarin. The nurse should monitor the client closely for which potential interaction?

<p>Increased risk of bleeding. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is teaching a client about the Somogyi effect. Which statement by the nurse best describes this phenomenon?

<p>The Somogyi effect occurs when blood glucose levels drop too low during the night, leading to a rebound hyperglycemia in the morning. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving both regular insulin and NPH insulin. Which procedure is correct when drawing up these two insulins into one syringe?

<p>Draw up the regular insulin first, then the NPH insulin. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is teaching a client how to administer insulin using an insulin pen. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

<p>Always prime the pen with 2 units of insulin before each injection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is evaluating a client's understanding of sick day management for diabetes. Which statement indicates a need for further education?

<p>“I should continue to take my insulin, even if I’m not eating.” (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a pregnant client with gestational diabetes who requires insulin. Which consideration is most important when administering insulin to this client?

<p>Adjust the insulin dosage based on frequent blood glucose monitoring and collaborate with the provider. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client who has been prescribed pramlintide in addition to insulin. The nurse recognizes that which statement about pramlintide is correct?

<p>Pramlintide should be injected at least 2 inches away from the insulin injection site. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client. After drawing up the insulin, the nurse is called away to assist with a critical situation. What is the most appropriate action?

<p>Discard the prepared insulin syringe according to facility policy and prepare a new dose when available. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is teaching a client about insulin self-administration and the importance of rotating injection sites. Which statement indicates the client needs further instruction?

<p>&quot;I can continue to use the same spot if I don't feel any pain or see any skin changes.&quot; (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is administering insulin to a client who is also receiving an anticoagulant. Which of the following nursing actions is most important to implement?

<p>Observe the injection site for hematoma formation and prolonged bleeding. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client with fluctuating blood glucose levels. Which type of insulin administration approach would allow for the most flexibility and control over blood glucose levels based on the client’s current needs?

<p>Utilizing a basal-bolus regimen with a long-acting insulin and pre-meal rapid-acting insulin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a client with diabetes who is prescribed both insulin glargine and insulin lispro. How should the nurse administer these medications?

<p>Administer them as two separate injections, with insulin glargine given at the same time each day and insulin lispro before meals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client who has been managing their diabetes well at home is admitted to the hospital for an unrelated surgical procedure. The provider prescribes the client's usual insulin regimen. What is the nurse’s priority action?

<p>Consult with the provider about potentially adjusting the insulin dose, considering the change in diet and activity level in the hospital. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client newly diagnosed with diabetes who will be self-administering insulin. Which statement by the client indicates an unsafe understanding of insulin administration?

<p>&quot;If my blood sugar is low, I should inject a smaller dose of insulin.&quot; (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client and notes the insulin vial has been left at room temperature for several weeks. What is the most important action?

<p>Contact the pharmacy to obtain a new vial of insulin, as prolonged exposure to room temperature can affect its potency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is teaching a client with diabetes about the use of an insulin pen. Which instruction about priming the pen before each injection is most important?

<p>Priming ensures the correct dose by removing air bubbles and confirming proper function. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is preparing to administer insulin to a client and notes that the client's blood glucose level is 50 mg/dL. Which action is the most appropriate?

<p>Hold the insulin and provide a fast-acting carbohydrate source, then recheck the blood glucose level. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Insulin administration delegation

RNs can delegate insulin administration to PNs, but not to AP, as it is outside their scope of practice.

Rights of Medication Administration

Ensuring correct medication, dose, route, time and client is crucial in medication administration.

Pre-Administration Review

Review client's allergies, medical history, medications, labs and provider's orders.

Client Education

Reduces client anxiety and promotes a therapeutic relationship.

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Hypoglycemia Symptoms

Sweating, shaking, confusion are signs of low blood sugar; check glucose before insulin.

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Injection Site Rotation

Choose a new site to prevent tissue injury from repeated injections.

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Injecting air into insulin vial

Allows for easy removal of medication by equalizing pressure.

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Removing Air Bubbles

Ensures correct dosage and prevents air from entering the syringe.

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Double Check Insulin Doses

Many facilities require a second nurse to verify insulin dosage before administration.

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One-Handed Scoop Method

Reduces risk of needlestick injuries.

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Cleaning Injection Site

Clean from center outward to move germs away from the injection site.

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45° Angle for Injection

Use for thin adults/children to ensure subcutaneous injection.

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Post-Injection Care

Apply gentle pressure, do not massage, to prevent altered absorption.

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Post-Administration Evaluation

Evaluate medication effectiveness and any adverse effects at the appropriate time.

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Hypoglycemia Intervention

Check blood glucose, follow facility guidelines, and notify provider for hypoglycemia.

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Medication Documentation

Record date, time, dose, route, and client response accurately and timely.

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Study Notes

  • Clients with diabetes mellitus (DM) often require insulin injections to lower blood glucose levels, administered into subcutaneous tissue.
  • RNs can delegate insulin administration to PNs, but not to assistive personnel (AP) due to scope of practice.
  • Following medication administration protocols is essential for client safety and error prevention.

Skills and Nursing Process

  • Skills performance guidance aligns with best practices, with each step linked to a nursing process phase.
  • Due to the nursing process being dynamic, steps may shift between phases.

Safety Considerations

  • Check for allergies to prevent allergic reactions.
  • Verify client identification to ensure correct procedure on the right client, according to facility protocol.
  • Utilize standard precautions to prevent infection transmission, with additional measures based on medical history and protocols.
  • Adhere to medication administration rights: client, medication, dose, route, time, documentation, assessment, evaluation, refusal, and education.

Equipment

  • Needed: Nonsterile gloves/PPE, MAR, antiseptic, insulin syringe/needle, and insulin vial.
  • MAR provides information on insulin type, dose, and timing.
  • Insulin syringes are used for accurate dosing.

General Steps Prior to Medication Administration

  • Review the client’s medical record.
  • Assess allergies, medical history, medications, vital signs, labs, and the provider's prescription.
  • Review facility policy for the skill to identify contraindications and validate the prescription.
  • Obtain necessary supplies and confirm they are clean.
  • Providing privacy maintains client confidentiality.
  • Introduce yourself to build a therapeutic relationship.
  • Perform hand hygiene and wear PPE to prevent infection.
  • Verify client identity using two identifiers.
  • Confirm the client’s allergy status.
  • Educate the client about the medication, potential adverse effects, administration procedure, and right to refuse.
  • Follow medication administration rights; minimize distraction.
  • Check the MAR, provider prescription, need, interactions, contraindications, dosing, and considerations.
  • Check MAR, remove medication, compare label, and check expiration.
  • Calculate dosage if needed.
  • Interruptions during medication prep increases errors.

At the Client’s Bedside

  • Gather supplies and take medication at the correct time.
  • Perform hand hygiene and wear PPE.
  • Verify the client’s identity and scan the ID bracelet per facility policy.
  • Recheck medication label against MAR and scan the medication barcode.
  • Check pertinent findings immediately prior to administration.
  • Assess for hypoglycemia (sweating, shaking, clammy skin, lethargy, confusion, dizziness, nausea).
  • Assess for hyperglycemia (increased thirst/urination).
  • Review MAR for recent injection sites before selecting a new one.
  • Clean the insulin vial top with an antimicrobial wipe, allowing it to dry.
  • Remove the syringe cap and draw air equal to the prescribed dose.
  • Inject air into the vial while holding it on a flat surface.
  • Invert the vial and syringe, keeping the needle tip below fluid level.
  • Draw the prescribed amount of insulin, keeping the vial and syringe at eye level.
  • Remove air bubbles by tapping the syringe and injecting air back into the vial.
  • Carefully remove the needle and recap using the one-hand scoop method.
  • Verify medication dose with another nurse per facility policy, especially for high-alert medications like insulin.
  • Label multidose vial with date/time opened, if applicable.
  • Store multidose vial per facility policy.
  • Raise the bed, position the client, and maintain privacy.
  • Assess skin integrity at the site, cleanse with antiseptic, and let it dry.
  • Remove the syringe cap.
  • Pinch skin at the injection site if needed.
  • Inject the needle at a 45° to 90° angle, depending on tissue thickness.
  • Stabilize the syringe and inject insulin slowly.
  • Wait 5 seconds, then withdraw the needle at the same angle.
  • Engage safety shield and discard in sharps container.
  • Apply gentle pressure if needed, but do not massage the site.
  • Assist the client to a comfortable position.
  • Ensure client safety before leaving the room.

Methods for Reducing Fall Risk

  • Call light and items within reach.
  • Lower the bed to the lowest position with brakes locked.
  • Evaluate medication outcome at the appropriate time frame.

Client Considerations

  • Inject at a 45° angle for thin adults and most children.

Interventions for Unexpected Outcomes

  • Check blood glucose and follow facility guidelines for hypoglycemia interventions.

Documentation

  • Document date/time, nurse's initials/signature, medication, dose, route, pertinent findings, education, and client's response and unexpected outcomes.

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