Your nurses should closely monitor a theophylline patient's vital signs. Toxicity can occur rapidly without the occurrence of warning signs. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is needed for storage and use of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. It's used to treat all types of diabetes mellitus and is given with glucose to treat hyperkalemia. It may also be added to total parenteral nutrition to prevent hyperglycemia.
Intravenous administration requires regular insulin.
No other type of insulin can be administered by I.V. route. Because multiple types of insulin are usually stocked in patient-care areas, the potential for using the wrong type of insulin is great. If possible, solutions should come directly from the pharmacy. Another concern with insulin I.V. administration is that the drug absorbs to the surfaces of fluid containers and tubing. Larger doses promote less absorption.