What should the nurse do before administering a prescribed subcutaneous dose of short-acting insulin?

Before administering a prescribed subcutaneous dose of short-acting insulin, it is essential for the nurse to assess the blood glucose level. This step is critical because the primary purpose of administering insulin is to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. By checking the blood glucose level prior to administration, the nurse can ensure that the insulin dosage is appropriate for the patient's current metabolic state.

Assessing the blood glucose level helps in confirming whether the patient requires the insulin dose as prescribed. For instance, if the blood glucose is already within the target range or too low (hypoglycemia), the nurse might need to hold the insulin or adjust the dose accordingly. Monitoring blood glucose in this manner is a fundamental practice for safe insulin administration, allowing for risk mitigation concerning potential hypoglycemic events and contributing to effective diabetes management.

Ensuring that the insulin is given according to the patient's current needs enhances the overall safety and effectiveness of their treatment plan.