A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a client who has type 1 diabetes mellitus. The client takes lispro insulin and has a new prescription for pramlintide. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale Monitoring for weight gain is not a primary concern with pramlintide. Pramlintide is an amylin analog used to control postprandial blood glucose levels. Weight gain is not a typical side effect of pramlintide; instead, it may cause weight loss due to its effects on appetite suppression and delayed gastric emptying. Choice B rationale Monitoring for hypoglycemia for 3 hours after pramlintide administration is crucial. Pramlintide can increase the risk of insulin-induced hypoglycemia, especially in patients with type 1 diabetes. This is because pramlintide slows gastric emptying and suppresses glucagon secretion, which can lead to lower blood glucose levels. Choice C rationale Injecting pramlintide in the upper arm is not recommended. Pramlintide should be administered subcutaneously in the abdomen or thigh, not the upper arm, to ensure proper absorption and effectiveness. Choice D rationale Administering pramlintide 30 minutes prior to a meal is incorrect. Pramlintide should be administered immediately before meals to help control postprandial blood glucose levels effectively.