Insulin injections are an effective method for managing diabetes, delivering the necessary hormone directly into the body. Administering insulin correctly is important for its effectiveness and safety. This guide provides information on how to perform an insulin injection properly.
Getting Ready for Your Injection
Before beginning, gather all necessary supplies: insulin, a new needle, a syringe or insulin pen, and a sharps container. Alcohol wipes are also advisable. Always confirm the insulin’s expiration date and inspect it for changes like cloudiness or particles, which indicate it’s unsuitable for use. Unopened insulin should be refrigerated (36°F-46°F / 2°C-8°C), while opened vials or cartridges can be kept at room temperature (59°F-86°F / 15°C-30°C) for up to 28 days. Allow refrigerated insulin to reach room temperature for about 30 minutes before injection to minimize discomfort.
Once supplies are ready, prepare the injection site. Common sites include the abdomen, thighs, outer upper arms, and buttocks, as these areas have subcutaneous fatty tissue. Clean the chosen area with soap and warm water, or an alcohol wipe, and allow it to dry completely. This prevents the introduction of bacteria into the injection site.
Step-by-Step Injection Guide
Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If using an insulin pen, attach a new, sterile needle firmly. For cloudy insulin types, gently roll the pen or vial between your palms about 10-20 times to mix the insulin evenly.
Before injecting, prime the insulin pen by dialing up two units and pressing the button with the needle upwards. This expels air and ensures a small drop of insulin appears, confirming the pen works. Next, dial the correct insulin dose using the dosage knob or window. If using a syringe, draw air into the syringe equal to your dose, inject it into the vial, then invert and draw the correct insulin amount, removing any air bubbles.
Select a new injection spot, at least one fingerbreadth away from your last site. You may gently pinch a 1- to 2-inch fold of skin, particularly if using longer needles or if you have less subcutaneous fat, to ensure insulin delivers into the fatty layer, not muscle. Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle with a quick motion. Fully depress the plunger or injection button to deliver the insulin. Keep the needle in place for 6 to 10 seconds for pens or 5 seconds for syringes to ensure the entire dose is absorbed, then remove it straight out.
After Your Injection
Immediately after removing the needle, place the used needle or syringe directly into a designated sharps container. These containers safely store sharp medical waste and prevent accidental needle sticks. Avoid recapping needles, as this increases the risk of injury.
Gently check the injection site for any minor bleeding or bruising. If bleeding occurs, apply light pressure with a clean finger or gauze for a few seconds. Do not rub the injection site after administering insulin, as this can affect insulin absorption.
Consistently rotating injection sites prevents lipodystrophy, a condition involving changes in the fat tissue under the skin. Repeated injections in the same spot can lead to fatty lumps (lipohypertrophy) or indentations (lipoatrophy), which interfere with insulin absorption and can cause unpredictable blood sugar levels.
Important Safety Considerations
Never reuse insulin needles or syringes. Needles are designed for single use and become dull, bent, or contaminated after one injection. Reusing needles increases the risk of infection, pain, bruising, bleeding, and can affect insulin dose accuracy due to clogging or damage.
Proper storage of insulin maintains its effectiveness. Unopened insulin should be refrigerated but never frozen, as freezing destroys it. Once opened, insulin vials or pens can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days, though specific guidelines may vary by product. Keep insulin away from direct heat, cold, and sunlight, as extreme temperatures reduce its potency.
If you suspect incorrect injection, or experience severe pain, unusual swelling, redness, or unexpected blood sugar changes, contact your healthcare professional. These symptoms indicate an issue requiring medical attention. This information serves as a guide and does not replace personalized medical advice from a healthcare provider.