Abstract
Best practice in injection technique is critical to ensuring optimal
glycaemic control and is a part of good diabetes management. This
article discusses the consequences of poor injection technique
and offers advice on best practice in injection technique. A number
of factors contribute to good technique, including injection site
selection, injection site care, injection process, needle length, use
of lifted skin folds (if appropriate) and rotation of injection sites.
Health professionals also have a duty to teach and check an
individual’s injection technique, as well as to revisit and review their
technique at subsequent consultations. All health professionals—
especially nurses as the nursing role continues to expand—have a
responsibility to acquire knowledge and skills in current best practice
in injection technique. In doing so, they become better equipped to
support patients effectively and safely, improve patients’ quality of life
and minimize the risk of complications associated with diabetes.