Insulin Types and Their Effects

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Questions and Answers

A patient with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is prescribed insulin. What is the primary reason insulin is a necessary treatment for individuals with T1DM?

To supplement the inadequate insulin production resulting from autoimmune destruction of beta cells. (correct)
To enhance the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to endogenous insulin.
To counteract the effects of insulin resistance commonly associated with T1DM.
To stimulate the pancreas to regenerate functional beta cells.

Consider a patient experiencing a hypoglycemic episode. Following the administration of 15g of rapid-acting carbohydrates, what is the most critical next step in managing this patient's condition?

Providing a high-fat snack to sustain blood glucose levels.
Administering a bolus of long-acting insulin to prevent rebound hyperglycemia.
Rechecking the patient's blood glucose level after 15 minutes. (correct)
Initiating continuous glucose monitoring for the next 24 hours.

In the context of nursing education for diabetic patients, what is the most crucial instruction regarding foot care practices that should be emphasized to mitigate the risk of complications?

Soaking feet in warm water with Epsom salts daily to enhance circulation.
Inspecting feet daily for any signs of injury, lesions, or abnormalities. (correct)
Trimming toenails in a rounded shape to prevent ingrown toenails.
Applying moisturizing lotion between the toes to prevent dryness and cracking.

When educating a patient on the use of long-acting insulin, such as insulin glargine (Lantus) or insulin detemir (Levemir), what crucial instruction should be provided to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes?

Administer the insulin at the same time each day, without mixing it with other insulins. (D) Signup and view all the answers

For a patient prescribed intermediate-acting insulin (NPH), such as Humulin N or Novolin N, what is the most important instruction regarding its administration?

Roll the vial gently to mix the suspension before drawing up the dose. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of rapid-acting insulin analogs, such as insulin lispro (Humalog), insulin aspart (NovoLog), or insulin glulisine (Apidra), compared to regular insulin?

They have a more rapid onset and shorter duration of action, allowing for more flexible mealtime dosing. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A patient newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is prescribed oral medications and lifestyle modifications. What is the underlying mechanism driving the pathophysiology of T2DM that necessitates this treatment approach?

Insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction, resulting in relative insulin deficiency. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the management of diabetes, what is the rationale behind instructing patients to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly?

To assess the effectiveness of prescribed therapies and adjust treatment regimens accordingly. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the primary difference between type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM)?

T1DM involves autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, whereas T2DM involves insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale behind advising patients with diabetes to carry a source of rapid-acting carbohydrates with them at all times?

To provide immediate treatment for hypoglycemia, preventing potential complications. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A patient with diabetes is admitted to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Which nursing intervention is most critical in the initial management of this patient's condition?

Monitoring hydration status and administering intravenous fluids and insulin. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Following a diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), which treatment strategy is typically recommended as the first line of management?

Implementing dietary modifications and exercise to manage blood glucose levels. (D) Signup and view all the answers

A patient with diabetes is scheduled to undergo surgery. What is the most crucial consideration regarding their insulin management during the perioperative period?

Adjusting the insulin dosage and monitoring blood glucose levels frequently to maintain optimal control. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of carbohydrate counting in diabetes management?

To precisely match insulin dosages with carbohydrate intake to maintain stable blood glucose levels. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which instruction is most crucial when educating a patient about sick day rules for diabetes management?

Monitor blood glucose levels more frequently and adjust insulin dosage as needed. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale behind teaching patients with diabetes to inspect their feet daily?

To identify early signs of infection, injury, or ulceration to prevent severe complications. (C) Signup and view all the answers

When administering short-acting insulin (e.g., Regular insulin) intravenously, what is the most critical factor to consider regarding its onset and duration of action?

Intravenous administration allows for a more rapid and predictable onset of action compared to subcutaneous injection. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between exercise and insulin sensitivity in individuals with diabetes?

Regular exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to utilize glucose more effectively. (B) Signup and view all the answers

For a patient with diabetes who reports frequent episodes of hypoglycemia, what is the most important assessment to conduct to identify potential contributing factors?

Evaluating the patient's understanding of proper insulin administration technique and timing, as well as medication use. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the rationale for routinely monitoring kidney function in individuals with diabetes?

To detect early signs of nephropathy, a common complication of diabetes that can lead to kidney failure. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Rapid-Acting Insulin

Insulin lispro, aspart, and glulisine; Onset: 10-15 mins; Peak: 1-2 hrs; Duration: 3-5 hrs. Take before meals.

Short-Acting Insulin

Regular insulin (Humulin R, Novolin R); Onset: 30-60 mins; Peak: 2-4 hrs; Duration: 5-8 hrs. Used IV/SC, 30 mins before meals.

Intermediate-Acting Insulin

NPH insulin (Humulin N, Novolin N); Onset: 1-2 hrs; Peak: 4-12 hrs; Duration: 12-18 hrs. Cloudy, roll to mix, often BID.

Long-Acting Insulin

Insulin glargine (Lantus), detemir (Levemir); Onset: 1-2 hrs; Peak: Minimal; Duration: ~24 hrs. Do not mix, same time daily.