# 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?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=393722&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Medication Administration  
> category: 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?

## Option

1. Give the insulin and hold breakfast for 1 hour.
2. Mix the rapid-acting insulin with long-acting insulin.
3. Administer the insulin only after the glucose is above 200 mg/dL.
4. Confirm that the breakfast tray is available. **✔ Correct answer**

**Correct answer: 4**

## 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

- **Rapid-Acting Insulin** — Insulin with quick onset used to cover meals or correct hyperglycemia, requiring attention to meal timing.
- **Hypoglycemia** — Low blood glucose that may occur if insulin action is not matched with carbohydrate intake.
- **Medication Administration** — Safe process of giving medications using the right client, medication, dose, route, time, and assessment.

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