Insulin therapy in primary care – key points for nurses (Nursing in Practice, 24 April 2025)

Summary

Insulin prescribing in the UK has tripled in the past decade, in particular due to an increase in use among those living with type 2 diabetes, now the largest group of insulin users.

As a result, nurses in general practice and the community are increasingly expected to be skilled in supporting people living with type 2 diabetes with insulin therapy and associated glucose monitoring.

The management of insulin therapy requires knowledge of the type of diabetes it is being used for and appropriate dosing, as well as correct injection technique, to prevent complications and medication errors. Diabetes nursing specialist Debbie Hicks shares key points on the management of insulin therapy for nurses in primary care.