Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Memorandum Ref: S&C: 12-30-ALL
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. Please view here: http://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Policy-and-Memos-to-States-and-Regions-Items/Survey-and-Cert-Letter-12-30.html
CDC Clinical Reminder: Insulin Pens Must Never Be Used for More than One Person: http://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/clinical-reminders/insulin-pens.html