Diabetes is a manageable condition, but proper insulin storage and syringe safety techniques are vital to ensure safe treatment. If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes, keep the following information in mind.
Insulin Storage and Use
Many manufacturers recommend storing insulin in the refrigerator to extend product life, but injecting cold insulin is often more painful. As a compromise, store excess bottles in the fridge and keep only one out at a time. Stored at room temperature, insulin lasts about one month.
It’s important not to store insulin in areas of extreme temperatures. Keep bottles out of the freezer, direct sunlight, the glove compartment of a car, or anywhere else subject to extreme heat or cold.
Never use insulin beyond its expiration date. Even if the date hasn’t passed, look for discoloration, clumping, frosting or crystal formation within the bottle. Return unopened bottles with such abnormalities to your pharmacy for an exchange or refund.
Syringe Reuse
Reusing syringes reduces costs, avoids the need to stockpile supplies and reduces waste. To help ensure safety when reusing syringes, follow these tips:
- Cap the needle when not in use to keep it clean.
- Don’t let the needle touch any surface but your clean skin and the top of the insulin bottle.
- Never share syringes with anyone.
You should not reuse your syringes if you’re ill, have open wounds on your hands or have a compromised immune system. Syringe manufacturers can’t guarantee whether reused syringes are sterile. Talk to your doctor about whether reusing syringes is safe for you.
Syringe Disposal
You know it’s time to dispose of a syringe when the needle becomes dull, bent or touches something other than clean skin. The best syringe disposal method is to use a device that clips, catches and contains the needle to prevent others from reusing it.
If you prefer not to destroy your needles, recap them and place them in an opaque, heavy-duty container. Ask your city or county waste authority for any rules regarding the disposal of medical waste, including used syringes.
For more useful syringe safety tips, as well as supplies to manage diabetes, please contact MAR-J Medical Supply.
Image via Shutterstock.com
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