The nurse administers neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin to a client at 0900. What action should the nurse plan to take to prevent hypoglycemia when the medication peaks?

A. Ensure the client eats their lunch before 1100: Lunch typically occurs later in the day, so timing it before 1100 does not align with NPH insulin’s peak, which occurs approximately 4–6 hours after administration. This action would not effectively prevent hypoglycemia during the peak period. B. Teach the client to avoid caloric intake at 1200: Avoiding food intake near the insulin peak increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Clients need adequate carbohydrate intake when insulin levels are highest to maintain blood glucose within a safe range. C. Provide the client with an afternoon snack at 1500: NPH insulin administered at 0900 peaks around mid- to late-afternoon. Providing a snack during this time helps prevent hypoglycemia by supplying glucose to match the insulin’s maximum action, maintaining safe blood glucose levels. D. Make sure the client eats their breakfast at 0900: While eating at the time of insulin administration is important, the risk of hypoglycemia is greatest at the peak later in the day. Breakfast alone does not prevent hypoglycemia during the afternoon peak of NPH insulin.