A postpartum client has type 1 diabetes. The client gave birth 24 hours ago. During the immediate postpartum period, which of the following statements is the most accurate about her insulin needs?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's insulin needs decrease during the immediate postpartum period. The placenta produces the hormone lactogen, which increases the client's resistance to insulin. After birth, the hormone that antagonizes the action of insulin is not in the system because its source is removed through placental expulsion. The effect is an increased cellular response to insulin, which consequently decreases the need for insulin. The client may only need about one-half of the prenatal insulin dose during the immediate postpartum period.

A Postpartum Client Has Type 1 Diabetes