Insulin Pens
Diabetes Lab eTraining Slide 9
Regardless of whether a student uses a pre-filled or a reusable pen design, the techniques for dose preparation and insulin delivery are generally similar.
Instructions:
1. Get supplies:
- insulin
- syringe and needle
- alcohol wipe
- gloves
- sharps container
2. Wash hands and apply gloves.
- Have student select injection site
- Clean the injection site and wait to dry
- Screw the pen needle onto the pen device
3. Have student select injection site
4. Clean the injection site and wait to dry
5. Screw the pen needle onto the pen device
6. Dial number of units to be administered (2,4,5)
7. Holding the pen upright, needle end up, press the plunger at the bottom of the pen to remove air until a few drops of insulin come out the end of the needle
8. Check the insulin dose. Reverify 5 Rights
9. Pinch up the skin
10. Push the needle into the skin at 90 degree angle
11. Release pinch
12. Push down on the plunger at the base or bottom of the pen
13. Remove and dispose of pen needle
14. Document time, dosage, site, and blood glucose value
Note: A brand new pen will need to be 鈥減rimed鈥� with 4-6 units until a few drops of insulin come out of the needle. The purpose of priming is to clear any air out of the syringe that could affect dosing. Priming should be done into the air and not at the student.
