A hospitalized client with type 1 diabetes has several insulin prescriptions. Which of the following orders would prompt the nurse to contact the healthcare provider for clarification?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Detemir is a long-acting insulin, typically administered once or twice daily subcutaneously. The timing (evening) is appropriate for bedtime coverage, and subcutaneous administration is correct. No clarification is needed. B. NPH insulin is intermediate-acting and should always be administered subcutaneously, not orally. Insulin cannot be given by mouth, as it is a protein that would be digested in the GI tract and rendered inactive. This order is unsafe and requires immediate clarification with the healthcare provider. C. Regular insulin can be administered intravenously in hospital settings for hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis. This order is appropriate for acute management of high blood glucose in type 1 diabetes. D. Lispro is a rapid-acting insulin, administered subcutaneously before meals to manage postprandial glucose spikes. The timing and route are appropriate; no clarification is needed.