Hi Lauren,
I work in a hospital-based pediatric endocrinology clinic and previously worked in an adult endocrinology practice. Medical assistants are not permitted to administer insulin at either clinic. Both facilities actually require a "two nurse check" for insulin due to the high risk of adverse effects with improper dosing and administration. I have found that in my state (PA), unlicensed personnel can administer insulin in group home and assisted living facilities, but they must take an annual course in medication administration. I'm not sure if that is similar to the program you mentioned in NE. Here is a link to the course:
https://medsadmin.myodp.org/cms/My understanding is that it is specifically for those settings and would not apply to clinics, at least in PA.
------------------------------
Shaylyn McDaniel
RN
UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh PA
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 07-29-2022 09:31
From: Lauren Sanchez
Subject: Insulin Administration - Subcutaneous
Hi All,
I am looking for some insight as to best practice for insulin administration. The question as to whether or not a medical assistant (MA) can give insulin came up in our clinics. The clinic is in Nebraska. MAs are not licensed in NE but are required to be active on the NE Medication Aide Registry. Insulin is considered a high risk medication, so was curious what other clinics' practice is regarding insulin administration by unlicensed staff.
Thank you for your time,
Lauren
------------------------------
Lauren Sanchez, BSN, RN
Clinical Practice Coordinator
CHI Health Clinic
Omaha, NE
lauren.sanchez@commonspirit.org
------------------------------