After administering insulin glargine at 2100, when should a nurse expect the client’s serum glucose levels to start decreasing?

Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin that provides a steady level of insulin in the body over an extended period, typically lasting about 24 hours. When administered, insulin glargine begins to exert its effects gradually rather than immediately.

The expected onset of action for insulin glargine can vary slightly among individuals, but it typically begins to lower blood glucose levels a few hours after administration. In this case, the time frame between 2200 and 2300 (around 1 to 2 hours after administration at 2100) aligns with the pharmacokinetics of insulin glargine. During this period, blood glucose levels are expected to begin to decrease.

This characteristic of insulin glargine allows for improved glycemic control throughout the night, helping to manage glucose levels effectively while the patient is asleep. As a long-acting insulin, it avoids the sharp peaks and troughs seen with rapid-acting insulins, ensuring a more stable glucose regulation.