The physician orders a 1,800-calorie diabetic diet and 40 units of Humulin N insulin (an intermediate-acting insulin) administered subcutaneously @ 0700 for a patient with diabetes mellitus. A mid-afternoon snack of milk and crackers is given to

A. Prevent diabetic coma: A diabetic coma (such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state) is not the primary concern related to insulin administration. It is associated with severe hyperglycemia, not with the need for a snack to balance insulin action. B. Improve nutrition: While the snack may help with overall nutrition, it is not primarily intended to improve nutrition in this scenario. The goal is to maintain blood sugar levels within a safe range, particularly after insulin administration. C. Improve carbohydrate metabolism: The primary goal of the mid-afternoon snack is not to directly impact carbohydrate metabolism. The snack is designed to maintain glucose levels after insulin has been administered. D. Prevent an insulin reaction: The snack is likely provided to prevent hypoglycemia or an insulin reaction (low blood sugar). Humulin N insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin, and its peak action occurs several hours after administration. The snack helps prevent low blood sugar by providing a source of glucose to balance the insulin effect.