A Guide For Self-Administered Insulin Injections


by Carl DiNello - Date: 2007-04-05 - Word Count: 366 Share This!

* Using the correct syringe - Selecting the correct syringe for your self-administered insulin injection does not have to be a difficult task. Simply choose the size syringe that is the easiest for you to use with your specific dose of insulin. Keep in mind that there is less discomfort when using shorter and thinner needles. However, if you're overweight chances are you will have to select a longer needle.

* Decide where on your body you will administer your injection - Insulin injections may be administered just about anywhere on the body. Just be sure that there is enough fat underneath the skin at the site of your injection. Some suggested locations would include the back of your arms, your thigh area, and even your stomach. Should your condition require frequent injections of insulin, it is a good idea to rotate the injection location sites rather then use the same location over and over again.

Where is the most desirable location to inject insulin? That would be the stomach area, and the reason for this is that the stomach area is an easy area to reach and also allows for the insulin to be absorbed at a consistant pace between injections.

* Wash your hands - It is very important that your hands are sanitary, and that the syringe you plan on using is clean. Many people fall into the habit of repeatedly using the same syringes. This can be done without any problems if they are thoroughly cleaned with rubbing alcohol after each use. However, should you be currently ill, or have any open wounds on your hands, it will be best to use a new needle.

* Check the expiration date on your insulin and avoid using the insulin if it has past - Also, check for any kind of discoloration, or should you see any small bits of matter floating around in the insulin, discard the insulin immediately. For rapid and short-acting insulins, the color should be clear. If this is the type of insulin you use and the color has changed or appears cloudy, it is very likely this insulin is bad and should be discarded. For intermediate-acting insulin however, the color should appear to be a little cloudy.


Related Tags: diabetes, insulin infections, self-administered insulin injections

Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internet's most popular topics.

To read more on this topic, please visit Diabetes Symptoms & Risks!

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Copyright ©2007 Carl DiNello

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