Insulin self-administration technique with disposable syringe among patients with diabetes mellitus followed by the family health strategy

• Published in: Revista latino-americana de enfermagem Vol. 17; no. 4; pp. 474 - 480
• Main Authors: Stacciarini, Thaís Santos Guerra, Pace, Ana Emilia, Haas, Vanderlei José
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Brazil Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto / Universidade de São Paulo 01.07.2009
• Subjects: Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus - drug therapy; Disposable Equipment; Humans; Insulin - administration & dosage; Male; Middle Aged; NURSING; Self Administration - instrumentation; Self Administration - methods; Self Administration - standards; Syringes; self care; enfermería; autocuidado; insulin; family health; enfermagem; saúde da família; diabetes mellitus; nursing; insulina; salud de la familia
• ISSN: 0104-1169; 1518-8345; 0104-1169
• DOI: 10.1590/S0104-11692009000400007

This cross-sectional study aimed to describe the most common correct and incorrect self-administration techniques for insulin using disposable syringes by patients cared for by the Family Health Strategy (FHS), relate the findings to sociodemographic variables and also identify the professional responsible for teaching this technique. A total of 169 patients were selected by simple random sampling in 37 FHS units in a city in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil from August to October 2006. The results identified errors in all the steps recommended by the American Diabetes Association and Brazilian Diabetes Association for the safe administration of insulin, from hand washing to compression on the injection site. The FHS favors the development of interventions focused on the needs of the clientele registered at the unit, stimulating self-care. Results from this study can contribute to the planning of these interventions.