What is the proper way to give an insulin injection?
According to the National Cancer Institute of the United States, insulin is a hormone, produced by the islet cells of the pancreas , that controls the amount of sugar in the blood for storage in the cells.
Insulin pump or continuous insulin infusion pump. Photo: Claudia Rubio. Author: CLAUDIA RUBIO
When a patient has diabetes, the body doesn't produce insulin, or doesn't produce enough insulin, so glucose stays in the blood. This disease increases the risk of damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.
The Mayo Clinic explains that treatment for type 1 diabetes involves insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump. Therefore, if you have this condition, we'll explain how to properly administer this hormone below.
The first thing you should do is gather the necessary materials : an insulin bottle (remember to check the expiration date); a syringe; alcohol-soaked swabs; and a container to dispose of the used syringe. Then, wash your hands, remove the cap from the insulin bottle, and use the swab to clean the rubber cap on top of the container.
Diabetes can cause changes in urine. Photo: iStock
Once you're ready, follow these steps:
- Check that the insulin is in good condition. The product should not have any lumps on the sides of the bottle.
- Do not shake the bottle.
- Pull the syringe plunger to draw the amount of air into it equivalent to the dose of medication you want.
- Insert the needle through the rubber stopper of the insulin bottle. Push the plunger to force air into the bottle.
- Keep the needle in the bottle and turn it upside down.
- Pull the plunger back to get the correct dose
- Check for air bubbles. If there are, gently tap the syringe to help the bubbles float to the top. Push them back into the bottle and pull the plunger back to obtain the correct dose.
- Choose where to inject and keep track of the sites you've used before. Don't inject into a bruised, swollen, tender area, or a stiff area.
- The insulin must penetrate the fatty layer beneath the skin. Then, position the needle at a 45° angle and insert it. Inject the insulin slowly and steadily until all the insulin is injected.
- Leave the syringe in for 5 seconds after injection and remove it.
Try to use the same brands and types of supplies. Photo: iStock
The specialized portal MedlinePlus gives some recommendations before applying insulin
- Try to use the same brands and types of supplies. Always check the expiration date on the product, and if it's expired, don't use it.
- Insulin should be administered at room temperature. If refrigerated, remove it 30 minutes before injection.
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