Three Common Ways To Deliver Insulin
for subcutaneous delivery
The syringe
The needle is inserted just under the skin, into the fatty tissue in either the thigh, buttocks, abdomen, or upper arm.
The pen
is either comes filled with the insulin and uses a dial to select the dose, or a catridge is inserted into the pen. The insulin is injected through a needle just like a syringe, but uses a trigger instead of a pushing action. These are easier for kids to use to self-administer their insulin, and are more convenient than a syringe/bottle combination
The pump
A small unit is worn on the outside of the body. Instead of using needles, insulin is delivered at regular intervals through a tube into a catheter inserted under the abdomen’s skin. Insulin pump has become popular these days, as it does not need multiple daily injections.
WHere can i give
subcutaneous injection?
Lower back: Uncover the back from the waist to the top of the buttocks. Imagine a line that runs across the back just above the crack between the buttocks. An injection may be given below the waist and above this line. Give the injection halfway between the spine and the side.
Upper Arm: Find the area halfway between the elbow and shoulder. Gently grasp the about 1 to 2 inches of skin at the back of the arm between your thumb and first 2 fingers.
Thigh: Inject at the area halfway between the knee and hip and slightly to the side.
Abdomen: Inject either below the waist above the hip bone or to the side about 2 inches form belly button. Make sure to avoid injecting the belly button.
KEEP IN MIND TO ALWAYS KEEP TRACK WHERE THE INJECTIONS ARE GIVEN. ALWAYS CHANGE SITES FOR INJECTIONS TO AVOID SCARS AND SKIN CHANGES
Sources :
1. Diabetes Info. Available at http://www.diabetes-info.co.uk/treating-diabetes/insulin-overview.html
2.Insulin-Pharmacology, type of regimen and adjustment. Available at http://diabetesmanager.pbworks.com
3.Diapedia-Pharmacokinetic and -dynamic of insulin absorption. Available at http://www.diapedia.org/management/pharmacokinetics-and-dynamics-of-insulin-absorption