What is an important factor when using insulin pens?

Performing air shots to ensure accuracy is an important factor when using insulin pens because it helps to eliminate air bubbles that may have entered the pen or the needle. Air bubbles can lead to inaccurate dosing, meaning the person may not receive the intended amount of insulin. By performing an air shot, which involves dispensing a small amount of insulin into the air before actual injection, users can ensure that the insulin flow is consistent and that the delivery mechanism is working properly. This practice is crucial for maintaining precise and effective diabetes management.

The other choices do not emphasize the same level of criticality in ensuring the effectiveness of the insulin delivery. Keeping the pen warm may be relevant for certain cases, but insulin storage and temperature control are generally more about maintaining insulin stability rather than the immediate use of the pen. Sharpening the needle before use is unnecessary as insulin pen needles are designed to be single-use and already sufficiently sharp. Finally, using the pen without any preparation can lead to inaccurate doses, making it a less suitable practice for effective diabetes management.