A hospitalized client has a blood glucose of 118 mg/dL and i… | MyMerci
Medication Administration PPT
Question

A hospitalized client has a blood glucose of 118 mg/dL and is prescribed rapid-acting insulin before breakfast. Which action should the nurse take before administering the insulin?

Explanation
Rapid-acting insulin begins working quickly and should be coordinated with food intake to reduce hypoglycemia risk. The nurse should make sure the meal is available before administration. Holding food after insulin or mixing with long-acting insulin is unsafe, and arbitrary glucose thresholds do not replace the prescription and facility protocol.

In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Medication timing must match onset and client meal access.

Memory Tip
Rapid insulin needs rapid food.

KR vs US
NCLEX insulin safety often tests meal timing and hypoglycemia prevention.

Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
Rapid-acting insulin is administered close to meals because of quick onset. Safe administration includes matching insulin timing with nutrition availability.

Caution
Always verify the insulin type, dose, glucose value, and meal status.

Key concepts

Browse all questions No login required

Master the NCLEX-RN with MyMerci

Thousands of NCLEX-style questions with detailed rationale — in your language. Track your progress and study smarter.

Start for free
Read in another language: English한국어日本語繁體中文Tiếng Việt

For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.