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Optimizing insulin injection technique and its effect on blood glucose control.
Giorgio Grassi1, Paola Scuntero2, Rosalba Trepiccioni3
1S.C.D.U. Endocrinologia, Diabetologia e Metabolismo, A.O. Citta' Della Salute E Della Scienza, Torino, Italy.
Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology
|November 22, 2017
Summary
Proper insulin injection technique (IT) training improved glucose control in diabetes patients. This study found that individualized training and using 4mm pen needles led to better HbA1c, reduced insulin doses, and improved patient satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Diabetes Management
- Patient Education
Background:
- Suboptimal injection technique (IT) and lipohypertrophy (LH) are common in insulin-treated patients.
- Poor IT can negatively impact glycemic control and increase insulin consumption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between proper injection technique (IT) and improved glucose control.
- To assess the impact of individualized training on IT and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- 346 diabetes patients with long-term insulin use completed IT questionnaires.
- Injection sites were examined for LH, followed by individualized training.
- Patients were trained on site rotation, use of 4mm pen needles, and needle reuse prevention.
Main Results:
- 49% of patients had lipohypertrophy (LH) at baseline.
- After 3 months, significant reductions were observed in HbA1c (0.58%), fasting blood glucose (14 mg/dL), and total daily insulin dose (2.0 IU).
- Patients reported improved understanding and practice of IT, with high satisfaction regarding 4mm needles.
Conclusions:
- Individualized training in injection technique (IT), including 4mm needles, improves glucose control.
- This intervention enhances patient satisfaction, simplifies injection practices, and may reduce insulin consumption.
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