Learn: Insulin Types and Timing: Nursing Guide to Safe Management

What is the fastest acting type of insulin?

Rapid-acting insulin

What is the peak time for rapid-acting insulin?

1 hour

Which insulin type is effective for typical mealtime blood glucose spikes?

Short-acting insulin (regular)

What is the peak time for short-acting insulin?

2 hours

Name an example of intermediate-acting insulin.

NPH (Humalin N)

What is the peak time for intermediate-acting insulin?

8 hours

What is the duration of long-acting insulin?

24 hours

What is a key characteristic of long-acting insulin regarding peak?

It has no peak effect.

What mnemonic helps categorize insulin types from fast to slow?

Ready, Set, Inject, Love

What does the 'R' in the mnemonic 'Short' remind you about short-acting insulins?

All short-acting insulins end with the letter 'R' (e.g., Novolin R).

What is the onset time for rapid-acting insulin?

15 minutes

What mnemonic phrase helps remember the onset, peak, and duration of rapid-acting insulin?

15 mins feels like an hour during 3 rapid responses.

What is the duration of short-acting insulin?

8 hours

What mnemonic phrase helps remember the onset, peak, and duration of short-acting insulin?

Short staff nurses went from 30 patients to 8 patients.

What is the onset time for intermediate-acting insulin?

2 hours

What is the duration of intermediate-acting insulin?

16 hours

What mnemonic phrase helps remember the timing for intermediate-acting insulin?

Nurses play hero to 8-16 year olds (NPH).

What is the onset time for long-acting insulin?

2 hours

What is a clinical pearl regarding long-acting insulin?

They do not have a defined peak, providing a consistent effect over 24 hours.

What should nurses always assess during the peak times of insulin administration?

Symptoms of hypoglycemia.

What is the importance of verifying insulin type and timing before administration?

To ensure patient safety and prevent hypoglycemia.

What is the NCLEX tip regarding insulin questions?

Always identify the peak time first, as this is when the patient is most vulnerable.

Sliding scale how many units to give for 151-200

2 units

Sliding scale how many units to give for 201-250 units

4 unitsS

Sliding scale how many units to give for 251-300

6 units

Sliding scale how many units to give for 301-350

8 units

What to do if the blood glucose is higher than 350?

Notify the HCP