Question

Calculate the dosage of insulin where necessary, and shade the dosage on the syringe provided. Labels have been provided for some problems. Order: Humulin R U-100 9 units subcut 5 PM.

Short answer

Draw 9 units using a U-100 syringe and shade to the 9-unit mark.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Order

The prescription calls for Humulin R U-100 insulin, which is a short-acting insulin, to be administered subcutaneously at 5 PM. The dosage prescribed is 9 units.

Identifying the Syringe Type

Since the insulin type is U-100, this means that there are 100 units of insulin per milliliter. A U-100 syringe should be used, as it is calibrated to measure units for this concentration.

Measuring the Dosage

Using a U-100 syringe, locate the markings for insulin units. You need to measure out 9 units on the syringe. Each marking on a U-100 syringe typically represents one unit. Carefully draw the plunger back until the top edge is aligned with the 9-unit marking.

Shading the Dosage on Syringe

On a diagram of the U-100 syringe, shade the section from the bottom (0 units) up to but not exceeding the 9-unit mark. This visual representation helps ensure the correct dosage is measured.

Administering the Dosage

Once the syringe is prepared, administer the dosage as prescribed by injecting it subcutaneously at 5 PM.

Key concepts

U-100 insulin

U-100 insulin is a specific concentration of insulin that is commonly used in diabetes management. It contains 100 units of insulin per milliliter (ml) of liquid. This concentration is important because it ensures consistency and accuracy in dosing. With U-100 insulin, healthcare providers and patients can precisely match the required insulin units for their blood sugar control needs.
Using the correct concentration is crucial because different concentrations have different dosing requirements. For U-100 insulin, compatible syringes are needed to accurately measure and administer the dosage. Ensuring you have U-100 insulin and the proper equipment minimizes the risk of incorrect dosing, which could lead to serious health issues.

subcutaneous injection

A subcutaneous injection involves injecting medication into the tissue layer between the skin and muscle. This method is chosen for insulin injections because it allows for a gradual and steady absorption of the medication into the bloodstream.
When administering a subcutaneous injection, ensure that the needle is inserted at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the length of the needle and the thickness of the skin. Sites commonly used for insulin injections include the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.

• Abdomen: Quick absorption rate and easy access.
• Thighs: Moderate absorption rate and convenient for self-administration.
• Upper arms: Varied absorption and comfortable for some patients.

Rotating the injection site is important to prevent tissue damage and ensure optimal absorption.

U-100 syringe

A U-100 syringe is specifically calibrated to measure U-100 insulin, which has 100 units per ml. The syringes are marked in units rather than milliliters to make the administration process straightforward for patients and caregivers.
When preparing to administer insulin, it's crucial to use the appropriate syringe. A U-100 syringe has smaller calibrations that correspond directly to insulin units, allowing for precise measuring.
For example, if the dose is 9 units, you'd pull back the plunger to align with the 9-unit mark on the syringe, ensuring you draw up the exact amount of insulin prescribed. Using other syringes could lead to dosing errors.

measuring insulin dosage

Measuring insulin dosage correctly is vital for effective diabetes management. Proper measurement prevents both overdosing and underdosing, which can cause blood sugar levels to become dangerously high or low.
With a U-100 syringe, measuring insulin dosage is about aligning the plunger with the correct unit marking. In the example of a 9-unit dose, locate the number 9 on the syringe, and draw the plunger back until it is perfectly aligned.
Always double-check your measurement to ensure accuracy. Visual aids, such as diagrams, can be helpful to confirm the correct amount of insulin is being given. Remember, precision in measuring insulin dosages directly impacts the health and safety of patients.