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Insulin pump sick day management — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardEndocrine TherapeuticsInsulin pump sick day managementGPhC CRA

A 39-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes has been started on a continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (insulin pump). She presents to the pharmacy asking about her needle-free injection pen that she also uses. What is the most important advice about pump therapy and sick day management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Maintain pen and basal-insulin backup for pump failure

Patients on insulin pump therapy must have backup insulin pens (rapid-acting and basal) available in case of pump failure, infusion site problems, or illness. During illness, insulin requirements typically increase, and insulin should never be stopped. Failure to maintain insulin delivery in type 1 diabetes can rapidly lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients should also continue to carry glucose for hypoglycaemia treatment.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training/registration-assessment