Final answer:
To administer an insulin injection, a medical assistant must prepare the site, insert the needle at the correct angle, and safely dispose of the needle. Insulin helps to decrease blood glucose levels, particularly for those with type 1 diabetes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To correctly administer an insulin injection, a medical assistant should follow these steps: First, ensure that you have the correct insulin type and dosage as prescribed by the patient's healthcare provider. Start by washing your hands and preparing the injection site, which is likely to be on the patient's abdomen, thigh, or arm, depending on the most effective location for the individual. Next, clean the skin with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry. Then, pinch the skin slightly up to form a fold, taking care not to muscle the tissue. Insert the needle at about a 45 to 90-degree angle (depending on the person's body type) and deliver the insulin dose.
After injection, release the skin and pull the needle out at the same angle it was inserted. Dispose of the needle safely in a sharps container. Remember, insulin injections are important for people with diabetes, specifically type 1 diabetes, as they help to decrease blood glucose levels after meals by facilitating the transport and storage of glucose, which is critical for their health maintenance.