What is the purpose of an evening snack of milk, crackers, and cheese for a client receiving Humulin N insulin?

The purpose of an evening snack consisting of milk, crackers, and cheese for a client receiving Humulin N insulin is primarily to provide food that can counteract late insulin activity. Humulin N is an intermediate-acting insulin that typically reaches its peak action several hours after administration and can continue to have an effect well into the night. An evening snack helps to stabilize blood glucose levels during this time when insulin activity is highest, thereby reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.

This snack combines carbohydrates (from the crackers) and protein (from the cheese) along with some fats (from the cheese and milk), which can provide a balanced source of energy and nutrients. Ensuring that blood sugar remains stable is particularly important for individuals using insulin as part of their diabetes management plan, especially at times when they might not be eating regular meals.

While other options could have some relevance, they do not directly address the primary concern of managing blood sugar levels effectively during the insulin's active period. Therefore, the focus on counteracting late insulin activity accurately highlights the critical role evening snacks play in maintaining safe and stable blood glucose levels for patients using Humulin N insulin.