A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a long history of diabetes mellitus and is being admitted to the emergency department confused, flushed, and with an acetone odor on the breath. Diabetic ketoacidosis is suspected. The nurse should anticipate using which of the following types of insulin to treat this client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Insulin detemir: Insulin detemir is a long-acting insulin that provides basal coverage and is not appropriate for the immediate treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA requires rapid-acting insulin to quickly lower blood glucose and address the acidosis. B. NPH insulin: NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that has a slower onset and longer duration. It is not suitable for the rapid treatment of DKA, which requires fast-acting insulin to correct hyperglycemia and acidosis quickly. C. Insulin glargine: Insulin glargine is another long-acting insulin that provides basal insulin coverage. Like insulin detemir, it is not suitable for the immediate treatment of DKA, as it does not work quickly enough to address the urgent needs of this condition. D. Regular insulin: Regular insulin is a short-acting insulin with a quick onset of action, making it the preferred choice for the treatment of DKA. It can be administered intravenously, allowing for rapid correction of blood glucose and acid-base imbalances in emergency situations like DKA.