1. Understand Insulin
Insulin is a hormone that is secreted by the pancreas to aid in the absorption of glucose. Glucose enters the cells and provides energy to your body. The pancreas either stops working altogether or it doesn't provide enough insulin to aid in the transfer of glucose in insulin dependent diabetics. Without insulin, blood glucose levels keep rising and can lead to severe complications, even coma and death. Because the pancreas no longer produces enough insulin, insulin injections must be given to replace it. All Type 1 diabetics are insulin dependent, and some Type 2 diabetics may also need insulin.
2. Plan for Testing First
Some people have been diabetics their whole lives and can feel when their blood glucose levels are too high or too low, but even they should test their blood sugar levels before taking shots. Never give yourself an insulin shot based on a guess; always test with a blood glucose monitor first. If your blood sugar is already low, call the doctor before taking a shot of insulin that will lower it even further. Your doctor may advise you to take the shot only if you eat immediately after it.
3. Prepare the Insulin and Syringe
Store the insulin in the refrigerator until it's opened. Insulin should be injected at room temperature because cold insulin can be painful; if it's cold, let it warm up a little before giving yourself a shot. Gently rolling the insulin between the palms of your hands will warm it as well. Use an alcohol wipe to clean the top of the insulin bottle. Remove the top off the syringe and insert the needle into the insulin. Tip the bottle upside down so you can read the measurements on the syringe. Take care not to jiggle the syringe while filling it, because you can bend the needle and that will lead to a painful shot.
4. Rotate Location
Rotate injection sites so one site doesn't become too sore from overuse. The best place to give an insulin shot is in the center of the abdomen where it is more readily absorbed. Visualize a small clock with your belly button as the center. Stay at least 2 inches away from the belly button when injecting insulin because the skin there is tougher. Other injection sites include the thighs and upper arms.
5. Prepare for a Painless Insulin Shot
Clean the injection site with alcohol and let it dry. Gather the fat and skin with one hand and quickly plunge the needle into it with the other hand. Slowly inject the insulin so it can absorb properly. Take care not to wiggle the needle or plunge the needle at an angle. Remember, the faster you insert the needle, the less pain you'll feel.
