1 Insulin Therapy Free Online FlashCards

What is the usual role of rapid-acting insulin?

Rapid-acting insulin is commonly used for mealtime or correction coverage; follow the specific product instructions and prescribed plan.

Why coordinate mealtime insulin with food?

Mealtime insulin lowers glucose as food is absorbed. Coordinating the dose with the meal helps reduce the risk of glucose dropping too low.

Name two common ways to monitor glucose.

A blood glucose meter and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) are common ways to monitor glucose.

How should an awake person who can swallow treat glucose below 70 mg/dL?

For glucose below 70 mg/dL, take 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, wait 15 minutes, and recheck. Repeat if still below 70 mg/dL, unless the person’s plan says otherwise.

What should a helper do if someone is unconscious with possible severe hypoglycemia?

Give nothing by mouth. A trained helper may give prescribed glucagon, call emergency services, and stay with the person.

Why rotate insulin injection sites, and what areas are commonly used?

Rotate injection spots to avoid repeatedly using the exact same area. Common subcutaneous sites are the abdomen, thigh, upper arm, and buttock; follow product and care-team instructions.

What should you do if the insulin label dose differs from the written care plan?

Pause and clarify the discrepancy with the prescriber or pharmacist before giving the dose.

Why can repeating a correction dose too soon be unsafe?

Some insulin may still be active, so another correction too soon can cause insulin stacking and hypoglycemia. Follow the prescribed correction plan; do not improvise extra doses.

What is the usual role of regular insulin?

Regular insulin provides slower mealtime coverage than rapid-acting insulin. Product instructions and the prescribed plan take precedence.

What is the usual role of intermediate-acting insulin?

Intermediate-acting insulin provides background coverage with a more noticeable peak.

What is the usual role of long- or ultra-long-acting insulin?

Long- or ultra-long-acting insulin provides background coverage with little or no pronounced peak.

When might extra glucose monitoring be needed?

Extra checks may be needed around physical activity or when insulin doses, meals, or routines change, according to the care plan.