skip to main content

Insulin pen needle reuse — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardEndocrine TherapeuticsInsulin pen needle reuseGPhC CRA

A patient reuses insulin pen needles and repeatedly injects insulin glargine into a firm abdominal lump. Glucose readings are erratic. What is the most appropriate counselling when moving to unaffected tissue?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Use a new needle, avoid the lump, rotate sites and increase glucose monitoring

Pen needles are single-use and sites should be rotated to prevent lipohypertrophy. Insulin absorption from lipohypertrophic tissue is delayed and variable; moving suddenly to unaffected tissue can increase absorption and cause hypoglycaemia. The patient should use a fresh needle, avoid the lump, monitor glucose more closely and obtain dose review if needed rather than empirically increasing the dose.

Reference: Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals: Insulin administration: https://www.nnuh.nhs.uk/departments/diabetes-and-endocrinology/diabetes/living-with-diabetes/medications/insulin/; Lantus 100 units/mL SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2376/smpc