Questions and Answers
What are some other names for NPH insulin?
What type of insulin is NPH insulin?
Intermediate acting
What does intermediate acting mean?
A little bit longer onset time and longer peak and duration than regular insulin.
What is the peak time for NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the duration of NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What are some contraindications for NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the action of NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What are the indications for the use of NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the route of administration for NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a basal dose?
Signup and view all the answers
Can you mix NPH insulin with other insulins?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be monitored when using NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
What are nursing considerations when administering NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
How long are vials of insulin good for?
Signup and view all the answers
How long are insulin pens good for?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the recommended dose of NPH insulin?
Signup and view all the answers
Ginseng may increase the effect of insulin.
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
NPH Insulin Overview
- Also known as Humulin N and Novolin N.
- Classified as an intermediate-acting insulin with an onset of 1 to 1.5 hours.
Characteristics of NPH Insulin
- Intermediate acting indicates a prolonged onset time, peak, and duration compared to regular insulin.
- Peak action occurs between 4 to 12 hours after administration.
- Average duration of action is approximately 24 hours.
Contraindications and Cautions
- Contraindicated in patients with hypoglycemia and hypokalemia due to potential cardiac complications.
- Use with caution in individuals with hepatic or renal impairment.
Mechanism of Action
- Facilitates glucose uptake in muscle and fat cells.
- Inhibits liver glucose production and fat/protein breakdown, promoting blood glucose utilization for energy.
Indications for Use
- Primarily prescribed for hyperglycemia in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
- Effective in the management of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Administration Routes
- Administered via subcutaneous injection.
Role as Basal Insulin
- Functions as a basal dose, maintaining background insulin levels throughout the day due to its extended duration.
Mixing Instructions
- Can be mixed with regular insulin.
- Always follow the sequence: clear (regular) before cloudy (NPH).
Monitoring Parameters
- Regular monitoring of glucose levels, potassium, and HbA1C is essential.
- Be aware of potential antibody development that may react to human insulin.
Nursing Considerations
- Increase monitoring frequency during stress, acute illness, or when there are changes in diet or exercise levels.
Shelf Life of Insulin
- Open vials of insulin remain stable for 31 days.
- Insulin pens are effective for up to 14 days after opening.
Dosage Guidelines
- Typical dosing ranges from 0.5 to 1 unit/kg/day, usually divided into two doses to ensure consistent basal insulin levels.
Side Effects and Interactions
- Similar side effects and therapeutic effects as other types of insulin.
- Caution advised with ginseng, which may enhance insulin effectiveness and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge of NPH insulin with these flashcards. Learn about its other names, onset times, and characteristics as an intermediate-acting insulin. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to solidify their understanding of this important medication.