 Teach patient to rotate injection sites (subcutaneous areas) daily.  Change needles daily.  Insulin is most effective when injected into the abdomen.  Dispose of needs and syringes in an old laundry bottle ( with a cap) to prevent others from accidental injury.

 Alcohol pads  Teaching cushion  10 ml normal saline vials ( pretend insulin)  Insulin syringes  Cotton balls  Sharps container ( recommend old laundry detergent bottles)

 Remove cap off the saline bottle and clean top with alcohol wipe  Open syringe and draw up air to the level where the insulin dose will be, inject air into the bottle ( for example if the dose is 10 units draw up air to the 10 unit level).  Always tap on syringe to remove any air bubbles to ensure accuracy of the dose.  Withdraw the plunger to withdraw the accurate dose of insulin.

 Clean site with alcohol, and let dry.  Pinch up skin and inject needle at a 45 degree angle.  Withdraw syringe and cover site with cotton ball.  If using a pen press firmly on the topto inject insulin and leave the needle in the tissue for at least 6 seconds ( to ensure all the medication is injected).