INSULIN . . . Life Saver or Life Taker | Understanding How Insulin Works

INSULIN . . . Life Saver or Life Taker | Understanding How Insulin Works

Author: Jon Haws RN: Nursing Podcast Host, Critical Care Nurse, Nursing School Men February 27, 2024 Duration: 6:06

Does insulin save lives, or does it take lives?

Bodies that don't produce enough insulin shut down, but if too much insulin is in the system it can be just as disastrous.

As nurses, we are often tasked with administering insulin to our patients. When done incorrectly it can be life-threatening. 

For years I was a member of the code team, and count

  • WHEN I was a new nurse I remember trying to keep track of the patients and insulin action times and the dosage times and everything else . . . I felt like I was drowning trying to keep it all straight in my head - I was both stressed and scared at the same time
  • THAT'S WHEN I copied all the insulin peak and onset times down in my notebook.
  • THIS HELPED me feel more relaxed and avoid my patient coding!

If you want to see my notes they are at NURSING.com/cheatsheets.

Honestly, I still use the cheatsheet today!

What we cover in this episode: 

  • what is insulin
  • understanding how insulin works
  • what does insulin do
  • types of insulin
  • onset, peak, duration of insulin

Hosted by Jon Haws, a critical care nurse who remembers exactly what it was like to be in your shoes, the Nursing Podcast by NURSING.com (NRSNG) is a direct line to the guidance you need. This isn't about dry lectures; it's a conversation from someone who's been through the trenches of nursing school and now thrives at the bedside. Jon brings that real-world perspective to every episode, released several times a week, to keep you motivated and moving forward. You'll hear honest discussions about the common struggles and pressing questions that every nursing student faces, cutting through the overwhelm with practical advice. The episodes delve into actionable tips for academic success and navigating the unique realities of nurse life once you graduate. Occasionally, the format opens up to interviews with other experienced nurses and educators, providing a wider lens on the profession. At its heart, this podcast is a dedicated resource for NCLEX® preparation and overall student success, building confidence for both the exam and the career that follows. It’s a supportive companion for the challenging journey, offering clarity and reassurance when you need it most. Tune in and find the practical insights and genuine encouragement to help you succeed in nursing school and beyond.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Nursing Podcast by NURSING.com (NRSNG) (NCLEX® Prep for Nurses and Nursing Students)
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