# A client is prescribed insulin lispro before breakfast. The meal tray has not arrived. Which action is most appropriate?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
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> language: en  
> subject: Medication Administration  
> category: PPT

## Question

A client is prescribed insulin lispro before breakfast. The meal tray has not arrived. Which action is most appropriate?

## Option

1. Give the insulin now because rapid-acting insulin has a long onset.
2. Hold all insulin for the day and notify dietary services.
3. Wait until the meal tray is available before administering the dose. **✔ Correct answer**
4. Administer the dose and instruct the client to skip breakfast.

**Correct answer: 3**

## Explanation

Rapid-acting insulin should be coordinated with food intake to reduce hypoglycemia risk. Giving it before food is available can cause a dangerous blood glucose drop. Holding all insulin for the day is not appropriate without further assessment and orders.

## In-depth explanation

Clinical Judgment
Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Rapid-acting insulin timing.

Memory Tip
Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.

KR vs US
NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.

## Clinical scenario

Clinical Practice Guide
For Rapid-acting insulin timing, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.

Caution
Do not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.

## Key concepts

- **Insulin Lispro** — A rapid-acting insulin used to control mealtime blood glucose.
- **Hypoglycemia** — A low blood glucose level that can cause sweating, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
- **Meal Timing** — Coordinating medication administration with food intake to promote safety.

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