Problem 5 - Clinical Nursing Skills and Techniques

Question

An older adult with diabetes mellitus asks the home care nurse how to maintain her diabetic supplies. The nurse knows that teaching was successful when the patient states she should: (Select all that apply.) 1 Keep the used syringes in a small-neck bottle such as a screw-top soda bottle. 2 Keep the insulin vials in the refrigerator until shortly before they are needed. 3 Keep the insulin vials on the kitchen counter until all the insulin has been used. 4 Keep the glucose meter strips in an airtight bag in the closet until they have been used.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Correct options: 1 and 2.

Step 1: Understanding Safe Disposal of Used Syringes

The patient is advised to keep used syringes in a sturdy, puncture-resistant container to avoid accidental needle sticks. A small-neck bottle, like a screw-top soda bottle, is a suitable choice for disposing of used syringes safely. Thus, statement 1 is correct.

Step 2: Storing Insulin Correctly

Insulin vials should be kept in the refrigerator until they are needed to maintain their efficacy, as they can degrade if stored at room temperature for extended periods. However, once an insulin vial is opened or in use, it can typically be kept at room temperature for a certain period as specified by the insulin manufacturer. Therefore, statement 2 is correct, while statement 3 is incorrect because insulin should not be stored on the counter for long durations.

Step 3: Maintaining Glucose Meter Strips

Glucose meter strips should be kept in their original packaging in a cool, dry place, and not in an airtight bag which can trap moisture. The closet might be a suitable location, but storing strips in an airtight bag is not advised as it risks compromising the strips. Thus, statement 4 is incorrect.

Key Concepts

Safe Syringe Disposal

Proper disposal of used syringes is vital in preventing injuries and the spread of infections. When using syringes at home, it is essential to have a safe disposal plan in place. Syringes should be discarded in a puncture-resistant container. A screw-top soda bottle is an excellent choice for this purpose. It is durable and can be securely closed to ensure that needles do not accidentally harm people or animals.

Once the bottle is full, check your local regulations for proper disposal methods. Many areas have designated drop-off locations or programs for disposing of sharps containers safely. Never throw syringes directly into the trash, as this poses a significant risk of needle sticks to sanitation workers.

Insulin Storage Guidelines

Storing insulin correctly is crucial to maintain its effectiveness. Insulin is sensitive to temperature changes and can be affected by both heat and cold. Hence, insulin should always be stored in a refrigerator until needed.

For vials that are currently in use, you may keep them at room temperature, but only for the duration specified by the manufacturer, typically around 28 days. Storing insulin on the counter for longer periods, as mentioned in the incorrect practice, can lead to degradation of the drug, reducing its efficacy.

Furthermore, never freeze insulin, as freezing will destroy its effectiveness. In situations where refrigeration is not available, insulated bags or cold packs may help maintain insulin at a safe temperature, especially during travel.

Glucose Meter Strip Maintenance

Proper maintenance of glucose meter strips is essential for accurate blood sugar readings. These strips must remain in their original container until use to prevent exposure to humidity or contaminants that can affect their performance.

Storing these strips in an airtight bag is not advisable as it can trap moisture, potentially damaging the strips. Find a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight for storage. A secured drawer or a medicine cabinet might be excellent choices to keep them safe and intact.

• Always check the expiration date of the strips.
• Keep the cap tightly closed on the container to avoid humidity exposure.
• Handle strips with clean, dry hands to prevent contamination.

Proper care of these strips ensures you get the most accurate readings possible, aiding in effective diabetes management.