Question

Calculate the dosage of insulin where necessary, and shade the dosage on the syringe provided. Labels have been provided for some problems. Order: Novolin R U-100 8 units subcut and Novolin N U-100 15 units subcut at \(7: 30 \mathrm{AM}\)

Short answer

Draw 8 units for Novolin R and 15 units for Novolin N on a U-100 syringe.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Order

The order specifies two types of insulin: Novolin R and Novolin N. For Novolin R, the prescribed dosage is 8 units. For Novolin N, the prescribed dosage is 15 units. Both need to be administered subcutaneously.

Reading the Syringe Scale

The syringe used for insulin is typically a U-100 syringe, which means each unit marked on the syringe represents 1 unit of insulin. Thus, if the order specifies 8 units, we look for the marking labeled "8" on the syringe for Novolin R.

Drawing Novolin R Insulin

With the syringe ready, draw the plunger back to the 8-unit mark. This will fill the syringe with exactly 8 units of Novolin R insulin. Ensure there are no air bubbles and that the dosage is accurate.

Drawing Novolin N Insulin

Next, using a new U-100 syringe, draw back the plunger to the 15-unit mark to collect 15 units of Novolin N insulin. As before, check for air bubbles and ensure the correct dosage.

Administering the Insulin

Both doses (8 units of Novolin R and 15 units of Novolin N) are administered subcutaneously at 7:30 AM according to the order. Follow proper injection technique guidelines for subcutaneous injections.

Key concepts

Subcutaneous Injection

Subcutaneous injections are essential for administering medications like insulin. This type of injection is delivered into the layer of fat located just beneath the skin. It's a common method because it allows for slow, steady absorption of medication. To perform a subcutaneous injection:

• Select an appropriate injection site, such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• Clean the site with an alcohol swab to prevent infections.
• Pinch the skin gently to create a small fold.
• Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the patient's body mass.
• Inject the insulin slowly and steadily.

Following these steps helps ensure the medication is delivered efficiently and comfortably. Always rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.

Insulin Syringe

The insulin syringe is a specialized tool designed for accurate dosing. Typically, it's a U-100 syringe, indicating it measures units of insulin. The design is simple to ensure precision:

• Size and markings: U-100 syringes have clear markings for easy reading. Each line on the syringe represents a single insulin unit.
• Needle: The needle is small and thin to reduce discomfort during injection.
• Barrel and plunger: The barrel holds the insulin, and the plunger is used to draw and inject the medication.

Using the correct syringe and technique ensures that the patient receives the correct insulin dosage needed for their condition. Always double-check the markings before drawing insulin to avoid dosage errors.

Medication Administration

Effective medication administration involves following specific guidelines to ensure patient safety and therapeutic efficacy. For insulin, it includes:

• Verification: Always verify the doctor's order and double-check the doses needed before administration.
• Preparation: Prepare the insulin dose by drawing it into the syringe carefully, making sure there are no air bubbles.
• Timing: Administer insulin at the prescribed time to maintain blood glucose levels.
• Technique: Use proper subcutaneous injection techniques to ensure safe and effective delivery.

Heightened attention to detail and following set procedures are vital for preventing medication errors and ensuring patient safety.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs interact within the body. Understanding the pharmacology of insulin is crucial for its effective administration. Insulin helps manage blood glucose levels in the body by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy:

• Types of insulin: Different types of insulin, like Novolin R and Novolin N, vary in onset and duration of action. Novolin R is short-acting, while Novolin N is intermediate-acting.
• Action mechanism: Insulin binds to cell receptors, allowing glucose to enter cells, reducing blood sugar levels.
• Effects: Proper insulin dosing helps maintain normal blood glucose levels and prevent complications like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

With a solid understanding of pharmacology, healthcare professionals can optimize dosing and timing, ensuring the patient achieves the best therapeutic outcomes.