Types and Administration Techniques Flashcards

Which type of insulin is typically used for rapid control of blood sugar levels after meals?

Answer: Rapid-acting insulin

Rapid-acting insulin is specifically designed to start working quickly, typically within 15-30 minutes, to lower blood sugar levels. It is commonly administered just before or immediately after meals to manage the rise in glucose that occurs after eating. This type of insulin provides immediate post-meal blood sugar control.

Which of the following is a key characteristic of long-acting insulin?

Answer: It is used to provide basal insulin coverage for 24 hours

Long-acting insulin is characterized by its slow onset and prolonged duration of action, providing a steady, continuous release of insulin over approximately 24 hours. Its primary purpose is to provide basal insulin coverage, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels between meals and overnight. This type of insulin does not directly address post-meal spikes.

What is the preferred injection site for insulin administration?

Answer: Abdomen

The abdomen is generally considered the preferred injection site for insulin administration due to its large surface area and consistent absorption rate. Insulin injected into the abdomen tends to be absorbed more rapidly and predictably than from other sites. Patients are advised to rotate injection sites within the abdominal area to prevent lipohypertrophy.

Why is it important for a QMA to rotate insulin injection sites?

Answer: To minimize the risk of skin irritation or lipohypertrophy

Rotating insulin injection sites is crucial to prevent localized tissue damage and ensure consistent medication absorption. Repeated injections in the same spot can lead to lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps) or lipoatrophy (indentations), which can impair insulin effectiveness and cause discomfort. By rotating sites, QMAs help maintain healthy skin tissue and optimize insulin delivery.

Which of the following is the correct technique for administering a subcutaneous insulin injection?

Answer: Pinch the skin and inject at a 90-degree angle into fatty tissue

Subcutaneous insulin injections are administered into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, not into a vein or muscle. Pinching the skin helps to lift this subcutaneous layer, and injecting at a 90-degree angle ensures the needle reaches the correct depth for proper absorption. This technique minimizes pain and reduces the risk of injecting too deeply or too shallowly.