Diabetes mellitus refers to a disease of high glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. According to the Mayo Clinic, glucose serves as the main energy source for the brain and structures in your body. High blood sugar can lead to serious medical conditions such as heart disease, nerve damage and foot ulcers. Insulin is one of the main treatments to control high glucose levels in the blood. There are specific steps on how to give subcutaneous insulin injections.
Step 1
Wash your hands thoroughly with water and soap. Use an antibacterial sanitizing gel if water and soap are not available.
Step 2
Check the insulin bottle and read the label's expiration date. If the insulin bottle is expired, obtain a new insulin bottle.
Step 3
Turn the insulin bottle to its side and roll in your hands to mix the insulin solution well.
Step 4
Remove the lid from the insulin bottle and open an alcohol pad. Use the alcohol pad to clean the insulin bottle's rubber top.
Step 5
Remove the cap from the needle and pull on the plunger to draw air into the syringe until the black line matches the amount of insulin you are using.
Step 6
Push the needle into the insulin bottle's rubber top and push the plunger so that air goes into the insulin bottle.
Step 7
Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger to draw up the insulin solution to the desired amount.
Step 8
Remove the needle from the insulin bottle and choose a site (such as stomach or thigh) to inject the insulin.
Step 9
Pinch the chosen area of skin with one hand and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle with the other hand. Make sure the needle goes through the entire width of skin.
Step 10
Let go of the pinched area and push the syringe slowly so that the insulin solution goes into the body.
Step 11
Remove the needle and dispose of it in a biohazards container for safety.
Tips and Warnings
- Before injecting, make sure to remove air bubbles in the syringe by flicking the syringe with your finger. Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle for children and thin individuals. Do not reuse needles.
Things You'll Need
- Syringe
- Insulin bottle
- Alcohol pads
- Container for used syringe
