SIDE

MECHANISM OF
DRUG NAME INDICATION CONTRAINDICATION EFFECTS/ADVERSE NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
ACTION
EFFECTS
Generic Name: Short-acting, clear, Control of  Hypersensitivity to insulin, Endo:  Before:
Insulin (regular) colorless solution of hyperglycemia use during episodes of  Hypoglycemia  Verify the identity of the patient using the two-patient
exogenous unmodified hypoglycemia Local:  identifier.
Brand Name: insulin extracted from  Lipodystrophy  Validate the doctor’s order.
Humulin R beta cells in pork  Pruritus  Check the medication label.
pancreas or synthesized  Erythema  Confirm appropriateness of the dose.
Drug Class: by recombinant DNA  Swelling  Check the time and frequency of the ordered
Antidiabetic technology (human). Misc:  medication.
Enhances  Allergic reactions  Check the expiry date of the medication.
transmembrane passage including
Dosage of Order:  Obtain serum glucose level, Hgb A1c.
of glucose across cell anaphylaxis
 6 units SQ for  Discuss lifestyle to determine extent of learning,
membranes of most body
CBG ≥ 180 emotional needs.
cells and by unknown
mg/dl  If given IV, obtain serum chemistries especially
mechanism may itself
 10 units SQ for enter the cell to activate serum potassium.
CBG ≥ 250 selected intermediary During:
mg/dl metabolic processes.  Ensure you have the patient consent to administer
Promotes conversion of medications.
glucose to glycogen.  Check if the patient understands what the medication
is for.
Therapeutic Effect:  Check the appropriateness of the route ordered.
Controls serum glucose  Administer prescribed dosage
levels. After:
 Dispose used materials properly.
 Assess for hypoglycemia: cool, wet skin, tremors,
dizziness, headache, anxiety, tachycardia, numbness
in mouth, hunger, diplopia.
 Assess sleeping patient for restlessness, diaphoresis.
 Check for hyperglycemia: polyuria, polyphagia,
polydipsia, nausea/vomiting, dim vision, fatigue, deep
and rapid breathing.
 Be alert to conditions altering glucose requirements:
fever, trauma, increased activity/stress, surgical
procedure.
 Document administration after giving the ordered
medication.
Patient/Family Teaching:
 Instruct on proper technique for drug administration,
testing of glucose, signs/symptoms of hypoglycemia
 and hyperglycemia.
 Diet and exercise are essential parts of treatment; do
not skip/delay meals.
 Check with physician when insulin demands are
altered.
 Do not take other medication without consulting
physician.
 Weight control, exercise, hygiene, not smoking are
integral parts of therapy.
 Protect skin, limit sun exposure.
 Inform dentist, physician, surgeon of medication
before any treatment is given.