What should a nurse ensure about a patient before administering insulin?

Administering insulin requires careful consideration of the patient's meal schedule to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia. Ensuring that the patient eats within 30 minutes of administration is crucial. This is because insulin lowers blood glucose levels, and without food intake shortly after administering insulin, there is an increased risk that the patient’s blood sugar may drop too low, potentially leading to hypoglycemic symptoms.

Timing the administration of insulin to coincide with food intake is a fundamental nursing responsibility, particularly with rapid-acting insulins. It helps maintain optimal blood glucose levels and facilitates effective management of diabetes.

In this context, fasting for 12 hours before insulin administration is not necessary for all patients, as many individuals with diabetes may not require prolonged fasting. While positioning can be important for other assessments, it is not a specific requirement for insulin administration. Additionally, recent lab work, such as blood glucose levels, may provide critical information but does not negate the importance of meal intake once insulin is given. Thus, ensuring the patient consumes food shortly after insulin is vital in promoting safety and effective treatment.