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Insulin administration error — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardEndocrine TherapeuticsInsulin administration errorGPhC CRA

A patient on insulin glargine 20 units at night and insulin aspart with meals phones the pharmacy after accidentally taking 20 units of insulin aspart instead of glargine. She is alone, glucose is 5.1 mmol/L and the dose was 15 minutes ago. What is the most appropriate action?

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

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Correct answer: C — Advise immediate carbohydrate intake and urgent clinical support

Rapid-acting insulin taken at a basal dose creates a high risk of severe hypoglycaemia over the next few hours. The patient needs immediate carbohydrate, frequent glucose checks and urgent support, particularly as she is alone. The pharmacist should stay on the line or advise emergency help according to local protocol.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS