What dose of insulin should the practical nurse (PN) administer for a client whose glucose level is 163?

When determining the appropriate dose of insulin to administer for a client with a glucose level of 163 mg/dL, it is important to consider the specific insulin regimen that the client is following as well as their individual insulin sensitivity and target glucose level.

In many cases, for a blood glucose level in the range of 160-180 mg/dL, a dose within the range of 6-10 units may be typical, depending on the individual's sensitivity to insulin and how many units they typically require for corrections. The choice of 8 units suggests a moderate response to the client's glucose level, aligning with common practices for managing mild to moderate hyperglycemia.

It is essential to assess other factors, including carbohydrate intake, recent food consumption, and the client's usual insulin guidelines. The chosen dose should ideally facilitate a return to the target blood glucose range without risking hypoglycemia. Thus, this dose allows for an appropriate adjustment based on the client’s current status while adhering to safe nursing practices in diabetes management.