If the insulin injection for this client meets the criteria of a routine activity of living, the PSW can be taught to administer the insulin. If the insulin injection for this client does not meet the criteria of a routine activity of living, the PSW requires delegation in order to perform it.

Can PSW administer medication?

PSWs are allowed to assist in the administration of oral pills/liquids, topicals, eye, ear, or nose drops, and transdermal patches. However, even for these dosage types, you first need on-the-job training and practice before you can safely help with their administration.

Who can administer insulin injections?

Insulin delegation is the process by which a registered nurse allocates the task of insulin administration to a named, competent, non-registered practitioner, such as a healthcare assistant. Insulin delegation can help ensure insulin is administered safely and appropriately while making the best use of staff time.