Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

What is the most commonly used size of an insulin syringe?

1. 1 mL

2. 3 mL

3. 5 mL

4. 10 mL

The correct answer is: 1 mL

The most commonly used size of an insulin syringe is the 1 mL syringe. This size is preferred for insulin administration because it allows for precise dosing, which is crucial in managing blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. Insulin doses are typically very small, often given in units rather than milliliters, hence the 1 mL syringe, which is commonly marked in units, is ideal for ensuring accuracy. Larger syringes, such as those holding 3 mL, 5 mL, or 10 mL, are not suitable for insulin due to the larger volume they represent. These syringes are generally used for other types of medications or injections, where a greater volume is necessary. Additionally, using a larger syringe for insulin could lead to dosing errors, making it more challenging to deliver the correct amount of insulin. Thus, the 1 mL syringe remains the standard in the administration of insulin.