How to Give Yourself an Insulin Shot

For most people a shot is never fun but when you’re a diabetic and your life depends on an insulin shot knowing how to give yourself one is essential. Below are the simple steps to give yourself an insulin shot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Insulin
• Syringe
• Alcohol Swab or cotton ball with rubbing alcohol on it
• A prescription for insulin and needles

How to give yourself an insulin shot

1. 
    
   Swab the area where the shot will be given

   Take an alcohol swab or a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol on it and wipe the area where the shot will be given. The thighs and upper arms are most commonly used however the stomach can also be used. Pick an area that is easy for you to reach.

2. 
    
   Pull the plunger back to allow air into the barrel, and then push the plunger back down after putting the needle into the bottle of insulin.

   Uncap the needle on the syringe, pull the plunger (located at the opposite end of the syringe from the needle) out until only the end remains in the barrel (the clear middle section with the units marking on it) to allow air into the barrel of the syringe. Stick the needle into the bottle of insulin and turn the bottle upside down with the needle still in it. Push the plunger down and pull it back again until the correct amount of insulin (as prescribed by your doctor) is in the barrel.

3. 
    
   Pull the needle a little out of the skin to check for blood

   Insert the needle into the area previously swabbed with the alcohol swab. Draw the needle out a little way but not completely out of the skin to insure there is no blood. If there is blood, remove the needle, rub the spot with the alcohol swab and apply pressure to spot. Swab another area and repeat process.

4. 
    
   Press the plunger to give yourself a shot

   Press the plunger slowly until all the insulin is gone from the barrel of the syringe. Remove the needle and carefully replace the cap on the needle. Wipe the area with an alcohol swab or a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol on it. Apply a band-aide if necessary. Dispose of the needle properly (check your local law to find out how to properly dispose of your needles).

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.