Safe Use of Insulin Pens & Other Diabetes Products

For diabetes treatment there are several insulin devices that are specifically designed for administering insulin through a diabetic's skin. Types of devices include the syringe, pen, pump and jet injector. While these treatment methods can be effective, safety precautions must be taken to avoid injury or harm.

Insulin Delivery Methods

• Syringes consist of needles that are attached to thin tubes or barrels that store insulin. Safe syringe use is essential. Ensure the syringe is clean and sterile; do not re-use syringes. Keep the needle and tubes clean, and ensure that no air gets into the syringe or tube when injecting the insulin by following the instructions for compressing the syringe given by your doctor or pharmacist.

  Syringes used by diabetics are smaller than other commonly used syringes and are also better lubricated to make the process of injecting as tolerable as possible. Insulin syringes vary in size, depending on the prescribed dosage and strength type of the particular insulin being used. Do not use a syringe that is larger than prescribed for your dose, as this increases the chances of air getting into the syringe.

  For diabetics wanting a less-invasive or more comfortable treatment, insulin jet injectors are the most convenient to use. This insulin-delivering device employs high-pressure air to produce a micro-mist spray to administer insulin through the skin. These jet injectors must also be used according to the instructions provided by your physician. Use the device only on the area where directed and do not administer more insulin then recommended, as a large dose can cause an overdose.

  Insulin pumps are mini-pumping tools that are worn on the body like a gadget. These devices are attached to a catheter that is placed under the abdomen's skin, and are specifically programmed to administer insulin depending on the diabetic's insulin regime. Pumps are scheduled to release the insulin in small doses, usually after a meal. Insulin pumps require the least patient interaction as they function automatically. To use safely, ensure that no tight clothing or other devices inhibit the catheter or pump's function.

Insulin Pens

• Insulin pens typically look like an ordinary ballpoint pen but they have a built-in cartridge that stores insulin. The pens have tiny needles attached to their tips. Pens either come with cartridges that are replaceable or with already pre-filled, disposable ones. Insulin pens are a popular choice for many diabetics not just because of their compact, sleek design, but also because they offer an accurate, convenient and simplified form of insulin delivery. Replace the syringe needles after insulin is administered. Re-using needles can lead to infection. The use of any insulin delivery device must be done while strictly following the doctor's orders.

Safety Precautions

• According to ConsumerMedSafety.org, a U.S. Army hospital reported that over 2,000 hospitalized diabetics in the United States from August 2007 and January 2009 could be at risk of contracting viral infections due to the improper handling of insulin pens. Insulin pens in hospitals are intended to be used on a single patient only. Although needles are changed for different patients, the reusing of pens can be harmful due to possible cross-contamination. For diabetics visiting hospitals, bring your own pens and insist that only your pens be used during the insulin delivery. It is also wise to label the pen with your name.

  No matter what device is used, proper education is essential. Diabetics must clearly know what the right dosages are, when to administer them, and how to safely and correctly use the devices. Consulting physicians or health experts is a must because the specific dosage requirements and methods of use vary from patient to patient.