What key information should a nurse know when administering insulin?

When administering insulin, it is crucial for a nurse to understand the strength, peak, onset, and duration of the medication. Each of these factors plays a significant role in effectively managing a patient's blood glucose levels.

The strength of insulin indicates how much insulin is present in a specific volume, which informs dosing. The onset refers to the time it takes for insulin to begin lowering blood glucose levels after administration. The peak signifies the time at which insulin is most effective and blood glucose levels are expected to reach their lowest point. Finally, the duration refers to how long the insulin will continue to affect blood glucose levels.

Understanding these characteristics is vital for ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage at the appropriate times, allowing for optimal management of diabetes and preventing complications such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. This knowledge enables the nurse to anticipate when patients might require additional glucose monitoring or adjustments in their insulin regimen based on their individual needs.