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 8 units subcut, and Humulin N U-100 18 units subcut at \(7: 30 \mathrm{AM}\)

Short answer

Inject 8 units (0.08 mL) of Humulin R and 18 units (0.18 mL) of Humulin N subcutaneously at 7:30 AM.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Units

First, identify the units of insulin that need to be administered. For Humulin R, you need to inject 8 units. For Humulin N, you need to inject 18 units. Both insulin types are U-100, meaning 100 units per milliliter.

Preparing the Syringe for Humulin R

Calculate the volume for Humulin R. Since Humulin R U-100 is required in 8 units, convert these units to milliliters. Thus, the volume is \(\frac{8}{100} = 0.08\, \text{mL}\).

Preparing the Syringe for Humulin N

Calculate the volume for Humulin N. Since you require 18 units, convert these units to milliliters. Thus, the volume is \(\frac{18}{100} = 0.18\, \text{mL}\).

Shading the Syringe for Humulin R

Shade the syringe up to 0.08 mL to represent the 8 units of Humulin R insulin. It is important to ensure accuracy, as too much or too little insulin can have severe consequences.

Shading the Syringe for Humulin N

Shade the syringe up to 0.18 mL to represent the 18 units of Humulin N insulin. Ensure the correct dosage is clearly marked on your syringe.

Timing Note

Both dosages should be administered subcutaneously at 7:30 AM. Check the timing carefully since insulin dosages at specific times help manage blood glucose levels effectively.

Key concepts

Syringe Preparation

Preparing your syringe correctly is crucial when dealing with insulin injections. The first step is to gather all necessary materials, such as your insulin vial and a suitable syringe, usually a U-100 insulin syringe in this case.
Ensure the syringe is clean and that the plunger moves smoothly. Draw back the plunger to fill the syringe with air equal to the required insulin dose.
Insert the needle into the insulin vial and push the air into the vial to avoid creating a vacuum. Then, invert the vial, ensuring the needle tip is within the insulin as you pull back the plunger to the required volume.
Check for air bubbles, and if present, tap them until they rise before pushing them out through the needle. Verify the liquid level in the syringe matches the desired dosage, using the markers for accuracy.

Unit Conversion

When working with insulin, understanding and converting units is essential. Insulin doses are often measured in units, and the most common strength is U-100. This means there are 100 units of insulin in every milliliter of solution.
For instance, to convert 8 units of Humulin R U-100 insulin to milliliters, you divide the number of units by the concentration: \[\text{Volume} = \frac{8 \text{ units}}{100 \text{ units/mL}} = 0.08 \text{ mL}\]
Similarly, for Humulin N, converting 18 units to milliliters involves:\[\text{Volume} = \frac{18 \text{ units}}{100 \text{ units/mL}} = 0.18 \text{ mL}\]
Always ensure you understand the concentration of your insulin, as using the wrong conversion can lead to incorrect dosing.

Subcutaneous Injection

Subcutaneous injection is a method used to administer medications like insulin just under the skin. For insulin, common sites include the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.
To perform a subcutaneous injection, first, clean the injection site with an alcohol swab to prevent infection. Pinch the skin lightly to lift the fat layer and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle if using a longer needle, or a 90-degree angle for shorter needles.
Inject the insulin slowly and steadily, then remove the needle and dispose of it safely in a sharps container. Always rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation and enhance absorption efficiency.

Diabetes Management

Diabetes management involves balancing medication, diet, and lifestyle to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Insulin injections are a critical component for many individuals with diabetes.
Administering insulin at the right time, such as 7:30 AM for Humulin N and Humulin R, helps mimic the body's natural insulin release and controls blood glucose effectively.
Frequent blood sugar monitoring guides dosages and adjustments. Beyond medication, a balanced diet rich in whole grains, proteins, and vegetables, alongside regular physical activity, supports overall health.
Maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals ensures you are using the most effective strategies tailored to your needs.