Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which statement indicates a patient with diabetes mellitus understands the use of insulin glargine (Lantus)?

1. Lantus causes weight loss

2. Lantus is used only at night

3. The duration of Lantus is six hours

4. There is no peak time for Lantus

The correct answer is: There is no peak time for Lantus

The statement indicating the patient understands the use of insulin glargine (Lantus) is that there is no peak time for Lantus. Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin that provides a steadier level of insulin over a 24-hour period, which means it does not have a pronounced peak like some other insulins. This characteristic helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia that can occur with insulin that has a defined peak time. Regulating blood glucose levels with a long-acting insulin like Lantus is important for patients with diabetes mellitus, and recognizing that it works consistently throughout the day without a peak shows an understanding of how this medication acts in the body. This knowledge is crucial for managing diabetes effectively and helps patients to feel more confident in their treatment regimen.