QMA Insulin QMA Insulin Storage and Handling 1

Question 1

At what temperature range should unopened insulin vials be stored to maintain potency?

Accepted Answer

36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in the refrigerator

Answer

Unopened insulin vials should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F to maintain potency until the expiration date.

Question 2

How long can an opened insulin vial typically be kept at room temperature before it must be discarded?

Accepted Answer

28 days

Answer

Most opened insulin vials can be kept at room temperature (below 77°F/25°C) for up to 28 days, after which they should be discarded.

Question 3

What should a QMA do if insulin appears cloudy, discolored, or has visible particles (for a type that should be clear)?

Accepted Answer

Discard the insulin and obtain a new vial

Answer

Insulin that appears abnormal — cloudy, discolored, or with particles when it should be clear — must be discarded as it may be contaminated or degraded.

Question 4

Why should insulin never be frozen?

Accepted Answer

Freezing destroys the protein structure, making it ineffective

Answer

Freezing damages the protein structure of insulin, rendering it ineffective and potentially harmful if administered.

Question 5

When rolling (not shaking) an insulin vial before use, what type of insulin requires this step?

Accepted Answer

NPH (intermediate-acting cloudy insulin)

Answer

NPH insulin is a suspension that settles and must be gently rolled between the palms to re-suspend the particles before drawing the dose.

(QMA Insulin) Qualified Medication Aides Insulin Practice Test

(QMA Insulin) Qualified Medication Aides Insulin Practice Test

QMA Insulin QMA Insulin Storage and Handling 1