How to choose an insulin syringe? Is it safe to reuse it? How can I reduce injection pain?
When it comes to diabetes, everyone is surely familiar with it. As you may know, people with diabetes often require insulin therapy, especially those with Type 1 diabetes. Only by providing the body with insulin can their survival be guaranteed. So, how do you choose an insulin syringe? Can syringes be reused? Most importantly, how can you reduce pain during insulin injection?
First, insulin should be injected subcutaneously using a syringe marked with insulin units. Syringes vary in size and insulin unit markings depending on the manufacturer. Insulin syringes are available in 0.25 mL, 0.5 mL, and 1 mL sizes, with several needle lengths. When switching to needles of different lengths, blood glucose should be monitored to assess changes in insulin absorption.
Remember: do not share syringes with others, as this risks infection with bloodborne viruses. Single-use of syringes is recommended, as reuse cannot ensure sterility. Repeated use should be especially avoided by individuals with poor hygiene, acute illnesses, open wounds on the hands, or weakened immunity against infection. Some patients may believe reuse is safe; if reuse is unavoidable, the needle and syringe must be thoroughly disinfected after each use before being used again.
How to Reduce Injection Pain
- Store opened, in-use insulin at room temperature and inject it at room temperature.
- Make sure there are no air bubbles in the syringe before injection.
- Do not clean the needle with alcohol, as this may remove the silicone coating and increase pain. Allow alcohol used to disinfect the injection site to fully evaporate before injecting.
- Rotate injection sites. Keep the muscles at the injection site relaxed and avoid tense muscles. Do not inject into areas with lumps or near hair roots.
- Insert the needle quickly and keep the angle unchanged during insertion and withdrawal.
- Use shorter, thinner specialized needles. Replace the needle with each injection; do not reuse dull needles.
- Inject slowly and ensure the plunger of the syringe or the button of the insulin pen is fully pushed in.
Finally, a gentle reminder to all fellow diabetics: for your health, never share syringes with others and use syringes only once whenever possible. This provides an extra layer of protection for your health.
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