Final answer:
In a hospital, insulin vials should be refrigerated unless currently in use, as proper storage is crucial for maintaining their potency. Insulin injections help decrease blood glucose levels by facilitating the transport and storage of glucose into cells after meals. The statement (c) is incorrect, as insulin lowers, not increases, blood glucose levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, vials of insulin generally need to be refrigerated in a hospital setting to maintain their efficacy, especially if they are not being used immediately. Unopened insulin vials, pens, or cartridges should be stored in the refrigerator, typically between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Once an insulin vial is opened, it may be kept at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) for a period of time that depends on the type of insulin, but generally no longer than 28 days. However, it is crucial to follow specific storage recommendations from the manufacturer as they can vary between different formulations of insulin.
Insulin injections are used to allow the transport and storage of glucose in the body's cells, which helps to decrease blood glucose levels after a person has consumed a meal with carbohydrates. It is important to clarify that the primary function of insulin is to lower, not increase blood glucose levels, correcting statement (c) in the question posed. An understanding of insulin's role and its proper storage is critical in clinical settings, including hospital emergency departments, to manage blood sugar levels effectively in diabetic patients.