Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

Bolus insulin refers to the type of insulin that is taken at mealtimes to manage blood sugar spikes resulting from food intake. Aspart insulin is a rapid-acting insulin, meaning it works quickly to lower blood glucose levels shortly after injection, typically within 15 minutes. This quick action makes it ideal for controlling postprandial blood sugar levels, which is why it is categorized as bolus insulin.

In contrast, the other types listed are not designed for immediate use around meal times. For example, insulin detemir and insulin glargine are both long-acting insulins, designed to provide a steady level of insulin throughout the day and night, which helps with overall blood glucose management but does not affect immediate post-meal glucose levels. NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that also does not meet the criteria for bolus insulin, as its onset and duration of action is less centered around meal times.

Thus, the unique rapid action of aspart insulin allows it to effectively serve its purpose as bolus insulin, making it the correct choice.