Page 1454 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

controlled with oral antidiabetic agents.

3. The onset, peak, and duration of action depend

on the insulin type (Tables 47-2 and 47-3).

4. Storing of insulin (Box 47-9)

5. Insulin injection sites

a. The main areas for injections are the
abdomen, arms (posterior surface),
thighs (anterior surface), and hips (Fig.
47-1).
b. Insulin injected into the abdomen may
absorb more evenly and rapidly than
at other sites.
c. Systematic rotation within 1 anatomical
area is recommended to prevent
lipodystrophy and to promote more
even absorption; clients should be
instructed not to use the same site
more than once in a 2- to 3-week
period.
d. Injections should be 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5
to 3.8 cm) apart within the anatomical
area.
e. Heat, massage, and exercise of the
injected area can increase absorption
rates and may result in hypoglycemia.
f. Injection into scar tissue may delay
absorption of insulin.

6. Administering insulin (also see Chapter 46)

Insulin glargine cannot be mixed with any other types of

insulin.
a. To prevent dosage errors, be certain
that there is a match between the
insulin concentration noted on the vial
and the calibration of units on the
insulin syringe; the usual
concentration of insulin is U-100
(100 units/mL).
b. The Humulin R brand of regular insulin
is the only insulin that is formulated in
a U-500 strength. U-500 strength

1454