Transform Your Future: Ace the 2026 Certified Diabetes Educator Exam!

Question: 1 / 400

When should the initial dose of subcutaneous insulin be given?

Before meals

Just after the insulin drip starts

Two hours before the insulin drip is discontinued

The initial dose of subcutaneous insulin is typically administered when transitioning from an intravenous insulin drip to maintain glycemic control. Given that during an IV insulin infusion, blood glucose levels are closely monitored and managed, it is essential to ensure that there is no gap in insulin coverage when the drip is stopped. Administering the subcutaneous insulin two hours before discontinuing the drip allows sufficient time for the subcutaneous insulin to start acting, ensuring that blood glucose levels remain stable as the IV insulin wears off. This timing helps to prevent potential hyperglycemia that could occur if there were a lapse in insulin effect.

In contrast, giving insulin before meals, just after starting the drip, or at bedtime might not provide the needed overlap with the IV insulin coverage, potentially jeopardizing the patient's glycemic control during the transition period.

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At bedtime

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