In our previous post, we discussed why some medications need to be injected.
In today’s blog, we will provide you with tips on how to reduce pain when injecting insulin. These tips apply to most subcutaneous (SQ) injections; deliver the medicine into the fat layer between skin and muscle.
For specific injection techniques, please read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication. If you have any questions or concerns, you can always contact one of our clinical experts and they will be happy to help.
If done correctly, most self-injections will not be painful. Follow these tips to minimize the pain:
- Always start with clean hands. Wait until the area you cleaned with alcohol is completely dry before you inject
- Always use a new needle
- If possible, make sure your insulin and needle are at room temperature before injecting
- Make sure to get all the air bubbles out before you inject. This can be done by expelling a small amount of insulin; once you get a steady stream of insulin, you’ll know that there are no more air bubbles left and your injection is ready
- Know where is the best area for you to inject. Thinner people or children may need to inject a little differently. Injection sites will be discussed in another blog post.
- Stick the needle in quickly BUT inject the insulin relatively slowly. Try to keep the needle steady throughout the process
At Alma Health, we provide our patients with the necessary training with each refill.
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