The survey included 31 questions that researchers developed based on review of primary literature regarding insulin pen utilization. The survey includes responses from 474 medication safety organization members.
Here are six findings:
1. Approximately 332 of the 474 respondents indicated insulin pens were on the drug formulary at their institution.
2. Of those who have had insulin pens on formulary, 15 percent are no longer using them.
3. The most common reasons for not utilizing the pens were cost and safety concerns.
4. Around 78 percent of respondents reported that pens were stored in the pharmacy prior to administration and 69 percent said that they were stored in a patient’s bin after administration.
5. More than half of respondents use two patient identifiers on the pen and label with a bar code.
6. Approximately 30 percent reported that providers had used an insulin pen on more than one patient at least once in their institution.
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