Using a BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) syringe, specifically an insulin syringe, involves several important steps to ensure safe and effective injection. The focus here will be on the BD SafetyGlide™ insulin syringe, based on the provided reference.
Steps for Using a BD Insulin Syringe (with SafetyGlide)
-
Preparation:
- Gather your supplies: BD insulin syringe, insulin vial, alcohol swab.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the top of the insulin vial with an alcohol swab.
-
Drawing Insulin:
- Remove the needle cap from the BD syringe.
- Pull back the plunger of the syringe to the dose of insulin needed.
- Insert the needle into the insulin vial, holding the vial upright.
- Push the plunger down to inject the air into the vial.
- Invert the vial, keeping the needle in place.
- Slowly pull back the plunger to draw the required amount of insulin.
- Check for air bubbles, and tap the syringe gently or push the insulin back into the vial to remove them, and draw the insulin again.
- Remove the syringe from the vial.
-
Injection Site Preparation:
- Choose an injection site. The reference indicates that it’s essential to rotate between and within injection sites to prevent tissue damage.
- Ensure injections are always a finger's width apart.
- Clean the selected injection site with an alcohol swab.
-
Injection:
- Pinch the skin at the injection site.
- Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle (or as recommended by your healthcare provider) into the skin.
- Push the plunger slowly and steadily to inject the insulin.
- Once the insulin is delivered, wait a few seconds before removing the needle.
-
Engaging the Safety Mechanism (SafetyGlide Specific):
- The BD SafetyGlide™ syringe includes a safety mechanism. After injection, use one hand to activate the safety shield by sliding it over the needle until you hear a click. This protects against accidental needle sticks.
-
Disposal:
- Properly dispose of the used syringe in a sharps container, adhering to all local regulations for medical waste disposal.
Key Considerations
- Rotation: Always rotate injection sites to avoid lipohypertrophy (lumps under the skin) and ensure proper insulin absorption.
- Spacing: Maintain a finger's width distance between injection sites.
- Needle Safety: The SafetyGlide mechanism minimizes the risk of needle-stick injuries.
- Healthcare Guidance: Always follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider regarding insulin dosage and injection techniques.
