How to Draw Up Insulin
Drawing up insulin is an essential part of a diabetic’s life. Learning how to do it carefully and accurately can be daunting, especially for those who are new to diabetes care. But with a few easy steps, you can be drawing up insulin like a pro in no time!
Step One: Check the Vial
The first step when drawing up your insulin is to always make sure that you’re using the right vial! Check the name and type of your insulin carefully, as different types and brands vary in dosing and accuracy. Make sure the vial looks intact with no obvious dents or cracks – give it a gentle shake, and if it feels funny, or if the insulin looks at all discolored, don’t use it.
Step Two: Clean the Vial
Using a sterile alcohol wipe, clean the top of the insulin vial. This gets rid of any bacteria that may have been on or around the vial prior to drawing your insulin. Be sure to let the area completely dry before continuing.
Step Three: Insert the Needle
Next, insert the needle into the top. This should penetrate the stopper without much effort. Make sure you do not over-penetrate the stopper, as this could damage your insulin and cause it to leak. Once the needle is in properly, you can use the plunger to draw up the insulin.
Step Four: Fill the Syringe
Slowly pull on the plunger, carefully drawing the insulin into the syringe. Be sure to keep on eye on the markings on the syringe to make sure you draw up the correct dose. Once you have drawn up the proper amount of insulin, you can double check the accuracy by gently tapping the syringe to remove any air bubbles. If you see any air bubbles, expel them by slowly pushing on the plunger.
Step Five: Inject the Insulin
Once you’re sure you’ve got the right dose and there are no air bubbles, you can remove the needle from the vial and inject the insulin. Always sanitize the injection site with alcohol and make sure there’s no blood present before injecting. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper delivery of the insulin.
Step Six: Dispose of Sharps
Finally, it’s important to responsibly dispose of your sharps. Sharps include any needle, lancet, or syringe used to deliver medication. Check with your local diabetic supplies or pharmacist for the correct way to discard sharps – never throw them in the trash!
Take it Slowly
Drawing up insulin is a tricky skill that requires patience and practice. Don’t get too frustrated if it’s not a perfect process at first – take your time and focus on accuracy. It will get easier with practice, and you’ll soon be handling it like a pro.
Be Prepared
It’s important to make sure you’ve got everything you need before you attempt to draw up your insulin. Have all your supplies and medications within easy reach, and make sure you check them to make sure they’re in good condition. Most importantly, make sure you take your time, follow the steps accurately and carefully, and always double check your doses!
Storage and Rotation of Insulin
Proper storage and rotation of insulin is important to ensure it remains effective. Insulin should never be frozen and should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Unopened vials can be stored in the refrigerator, but should not be exposed to freezing temperatures. Expiration dates should be followed exactly and any insulin that is expired should be discarded. It is also important to regularly rotate the oldest insulin to the front and the newest to the back of your refrigerator to maximize your insulin’s shelf life.
Troubleshooting Injections
If you’re having difficulty drawing up your insulin, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure the syringe has the correct dosage in it, and that you’re drawing up the right kind of insulin. Then, make sure the needle is of the correct size and that it’s securely attached to the syringe. If you’re having issues getting the needle into a vial, trying twisting it back and forth slightly – this should make it penetrate more easily. Lastly, if air bubbles appear, gently expel them by pushing on the plunger before injecting.
Insulin Administration
Depending on the kind of insulin you’re using, your doctor may suggest different methods of administering it. Insulins can be given subcutaneously, intramuscularly, intravenously, and intradermally. Subcutaneous injections are the most common, and involve injecting just below the skin in the fatty tissue. Intramuscular injections involve inserting the needle in the muscle tissue, while intravenous and intradermal involve injecting into the blood vessels and skin, respectively. Be sure to check with your doctor or diabetes educator on the correct way to give your insulin.
Have Faith in Yourself
Drawing up insulin isn’t always easy, but with a bit of practice and persistence, you’ll soon become an expert at it. Have faith in yourself, and if you ever have any questions be sure to ask your healthcare provider. They will be more than happy to make sure you’re following the steps correctly and getting the most out of your insulin.
