What is the primary purpose of administering regular insulin via IV in high serum glucose cases?

Administering regular insulin via intravenous (IV) route in cases of high serum glucose primarily serves the purpose of stabilizing blood glucose levels. When serum glucose levels are elevated, as seen in conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state, rapid and effective lowering of blood glucose is critical to prevent complications associated with hyperglycemia.

Regular insulin is a short-acting insulin that acts quickly to facilitate the uptake of glucose into cells, thereby reducing the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. The IV administration allows for immediate onset of action, as it bypasses the delays associated with subcutaneous or intramuscular injections. This rapid intervention helps in normalizing blood sugar levels and stabilizing the patient’s condition.

In contrast, other options such as increasing energy or promoting digestion do not directly relate to the acute management of high glucose levels. The focus during hyperglycemic emergencies is on controlling blood sugar, rather than enhancing energy or digestive processes, which are not priorities in these situations. Additionally, enhancing drug absorption is not relevant in the context of administering insulin, as the goal is not to improve the absorption of other medications but to provide direct and immediate control over blood glucose levels.