Understanding Diabetes and Insulin Flashcards

A resident with Type 1 diabetes is scheduled to receive a rapid-acting insulin injection. When should the QMA ensure the resident eats their meal?

Answer: Within 15 minutes of the injection.

Rapid-acting insulins, like Lispro (Humalog) or Aspart (Novolog), begin to work very quickly, typically within 15 minutes. Administering this type of insulin without ensuring the resident eats shortly after can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Which of the following best describes the primary physiological difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Answer: In Type 1, the body produces no insulin, while in Type 2, the body's cells do not use insulin effectively.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough to maintain normal glucose levels; this is known as insulin resistance.

A QMA is preparing to administer NPH insulin to a resident. What is the most critical time period to monitor this resident for signs of hypoglycemia?

Answer: 4 to 12 hours after injection.

NPH is an intermediate-acting insulin. Its peak time, when it is most effective and the risk of hypoglycemia is highest, is between 4 and 12 hours after administration.

While caring for a resident, a QMA observes they are confused, anxious, sweating, and have a rapid heart rate. The resident is awake and able to swallow. What is the QMA's most appropriate initial action?

Answer: Check the resident's blood glucose level.

The resident is displaying classic signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The first and most critical step is to confirm this by checking their blood glucose level before taking further action, such as providing a fast-acting carbohydrate, and notifying the nurse.

What is the primary function of insulin in the human body?

Answer: To help transport glucose from the bloodstream into the body's cells for energy.

Insulin acts like a key that unlocks the body's cells, allowing glucose from the blood to enter and be used for energy. Without insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia.

A resident's blood glucose log shows consistent readings above 200 mg/dL before meals. The QMA should recognize this as a sign of which condition?

Answer: Hyperglycemia

Hyperglycemia is the medical term for high blood sugar. Normal fasting blood glucose levels are typically between 70-110 mg/dL. Consistent readings above 200 mg/dL indicate poor glucose control and should be reported to the nurse.