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RN,MSN,CDE
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 11:46am
Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use
keywords: CDC, Insulin Pen
Section:  Nursing

Jan 5, 2012

Here are some excerpts from the CDC Clinical Reminder. The entire bulletin can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/clinical-reminders/insulin-pens.html

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has become increasingly aware of reports of improper use of insulin pens, which places individuals at risk of infection with pathogens including hepatitis viruses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This notice serves as a reminder that insulin pens must never be used on more than one person.

Insulin pens must never be used for more than one person. Regurgitation of blood into the insulin cartridge can occur after injection creating a risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission if the pen is used for more than one person, even when the needle is changed.

 

Recommendations by CDC

Anyone using insulin pens should review the following recommendations to ensure that they are not placing persons in their care at risk for infection.

·Insulin pens containing multiple doses of insulin are meant for use on a single person only, and should never be used for more than one person, even when the needle is changed.

·Insulin pens should be clearly labeled with the person’s name or other identifying information to ensure that the correct pen is used only on the correct individual.

·Hospitals and other facilities should review their policies and educate their staff regarding safe use of insulin pens and similar devices.

·If reuse is identified, exposed persons should be promptly notified and offered appropriate follow-up including bloodborne pathogen testing.

These recommendations apply to any setting where insulin pens are used, including assisted living or residential care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, clinics, health fairs, shelters, detention facilities, senior centers, schools, and camps as well as licensed healthcare facilities. Protection from infections, including bloodborne pathogens, is a basic expectation anywhere healthcare is provided. Use of insulin pens for more than one person, like other forms of syringe reuse [4], imposes unacceptable risks and should be considered a 'never event'.

 

Jan 5, 2012 http://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/clinical-reminders/insulin-pens.html
MEMBER COMMENTS
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 12:32pm
Re: Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use

Sad that the CDC has to put out a guideline on the obvious! 

 
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 12:54pm
Re: Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use

I once had an opportunity to work with incarcerated PWD and I'm amazed at how states tried to save money, with sharing monitors as well.  Not just the monitor itself, but the lancets.  That's just a law suit waiting to happen!

 
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 1:09pm
Re: Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use

I totally agree, Mona & Joan....it is a shame that CDC had to do this.  Unfortunately I think a lot of people fall asleep during the Infection Control Course and/or do not use common sense
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 3:20pm
Re: Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use

What timing! Thank you Pat.

At this time, last week and this week, we are having an "Insulin Pen Training Initiative."  We are re-teaching the correct use of the pens, including this very important point (no pun intended), as well as not to draw insulin out of a pen into an insulin syringe. Pens are not vials.

Our goal is to reach and teach or reteach 100% of our nurses.

EnJOY!

Joy
posted: January 16th, 2012 @ 6:29pm
Re: Jan 5, 2012: CDC Clinical Reminder:Insulin Pen Use

Your nurses are in good hands with you, Joy.