Survey of insulin site rotation in youth with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Injection site rotation is an important component of insulin administration and is helpful in preventing lipodystrophy in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). We examined the number of injection/infusion sites (sites) used by youth with T1DM and their perceived barriers to using new sites for insulin.

METHODS:

Two hundred and one youth with T1DM completed a 24-item survey about site rotation practices and barriers to site rotation during a routine diabetes appointment.

RESULTS:

Fifteen percent of youth reported using at least four distinct sites in their rotation plan, while 22% reported using only one site. A negative correlation was found between number of sites used and the number of perceived barriers endorsed by youth on multiple daily injections. Fear of pain was the most common barrier endorsed by youth.

CONCLUSION:

Many youth with T1DM may not adhere to an adequate site rotation plan. Regular assessment of insulin sites and counseling regarding adequate site rotation is needed when managing diabetes in youth. Relaxation and distraction may help to reduce youths' fear of pain when rotating to new insulin sites.

• Authors: Susana R Patton, Sally Eder, Jennifer Schwab, Christine M Sisson
• Journal: Journal of pediatric health care : official publication of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates & Practitioners (J Pediatr Health Care) 2010 Nov-Dec Vol. 24 Issue 6 Pg. 365-71 ISSN: 1532-656X [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 20971411 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2010 National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Glycated Hemoglobin A
• Insulin

Topics

• Adolescent
• Age Factors
• Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring
• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 (drug therapy)
• Female
• Glycated Hemoglobin
• Health Surveys
• Humans
• Infant
• Injections
• Insulin (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Male
• Medication Adherence
• Statistics as Topic