Friday June 1, 2012
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has
recently received reports of use of insulin pens for more than one
patient, with at least one 2011 episode resulting in the need for
post-exposure patient notification. These reports indicate that
some healthcare personnel do not adhere to safe practices and may
be unaware of the risks these unsafe practices pose to patients.
Insulin pens are meant for use by a single patient only. Each
patient/resident must have his/her own. Sharing of insulin pens is
essentially the same as sharing needles or syringes, and must be
cited, consistent with the applicable provider/supplier specific
survey guidance, in the same manner as re-use of needles or
syringes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also
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.
Follow the link to visit the CDC page on Injection
Safety:
http://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/clinical-reminders/insulin-pens.html
CDC Insulin Pen Poster:
Clinical Reminder for Use of Insulin pen
CMS Survey & Certification letter on Insulin pens:
Use of Insulin Pens May 18 2012