A client receives NPH insulin at 0700. During which time range should the nurse anticipate the greatest risk for hypoglycemia from the medication's peak effect?
10730 to 0800
20900 to 1000
31100 to 1900✓ Correct answer
42300 to 0100
Explanation
NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin whose peak effect commonly occurs about 4 to 12 hours after subcutaneous administration. For a 0700 dose, the expected peak-risk window is approximately 1100 to 1900, making option 3 correct. The earlier ranges are more consistent with the onset or peak of shorter-acting insulin, while 2300 to 0100 is later than the usual NPH peak window. Individual response varies, so glucose trends and hypoglycemia symptoms must also be monitored.
Clinical reasoning summary NPH insulin has a variable intermediate-action profile and commonly peaks several hours after injection. After a 0700 dose, monitor most closely from about 1100 to 1900, ensure meals and snacks are available, and watch for hypoglycemia.