QMA Insulin Sliding Scale Insulin 4

Question 1

A sliding scale order states: 'Give 4 units for glucose 201-250, 6 units for 251-300.' A resident's glucose is 249 mg/dL. How many units are given?

Accepted Answer

4 units

Answer

6 units

Answer

5 units

Answer

3 units

Question 2

Which of the following is a reason to withhold a sliding scale insulin dose and contact the nurse BEFORE administering?

Accepted Answer

The resident has a known allergy to the prescribed insulin type

Answer

Glucose is 185 mg/dL and the scale starts at 151 mg/dL

Answer

The resident ate breakfast 30 minutes ago

Answer

The injection site shows normal skin integrity

Question 3

What does it mean if a rapid-acting insulin vial appears cloudy?

Accepted Answer

It is expired or contaminated and should not be used

Answer

It has been properly mixed and is ready to use

Answer

It needs to be warmed to room temperature first

Answer

The cloudiness is normal for rapid-acting insulin

Question 4

A QMA is preparing to check a resident's blood glucose. The glucometer displays 'LO.' What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

Blood glucose is critically low, below the device's measurable range

Answer

The glucometer battery is low

Answer

The blood sample was insufficient — retest needed

Answer

The resident's glucose is within the normal low range

Question 5

Which of the following correctly describes the purpose of a sliding scale insulin protocol?

Accepted Answer

To correct elevated blood glucose readings with dose adjustments based on current glucose level

Answer

To provide a fixed daily insulin dose regardless of glucose

Answer

To replace long-acting insulin completely

Answer

To treat only nighttime hyperglycemia

Question 6

How should an insulin vial be handled if it has been stored at room temperature for more than 28 days?

Accepted Answer

Discard the vial and obtain a new one

Answer

Return it to the refrigerator to extend its life

Answer

Continue using it — the 28-day rule applies only to opened vials

Answer

Use it only for sliding scale, not scheduled doses

Question 7

After administering sliding scale insulin, when should the QMA expect to recheck blood glucose for a resident given rapid-acting insulin?

Accepted Answer

In 1-2 hours, or per facility/physician order

Answer

In 6-8 hours

Answer

In 15 minutes

Answer

No recheck is needed unless symptoms appear