Which one of the following steps must be taught for insulin administration?

The nurse is teaching a 10-year-old insulin-dependent diabetic how to administer insulin.

Which one of the following steps must be taught for insulin administration?
A . Never use abdominal site for a rotation site.
B . Pinch the skin up to form a subcutaneous pocket.
C . Avoid applying pressure after injection.
D . Change needles after injection.

View Answer

Answer: B

Explanation:

(A) Sites for injection need to be rotated, including abdominal sites, to enhance insulin absorption.

(B) The pinch technique is the most effective method for obtaining skin tightness to allow easy entrance of the needle to subcutaneous tissues.

(C) Massaging the site of injection facilitates absorption of the insulin.

(D) Changing the needle will break the sterility of the system. It has become acceptable practice to reuse disposable needles and syringes for 3C7 days.