Question

Which statement is correct regarding insulin needles?

1 They should be used at a 90-degree angle.
2 Insulin needles that are 8 mm cause less pain.
3 Insulin needles are inserted in an intramuscular site.
4 Insulin needles that are 4 to 5 mm can cause more pain.

Answer 1

Insulin needles should be used at a 90-degree angle and are inserted into subcutaneous tissue, not muscle. Shorter needles are usually less painful and the sharpness of the needle affects the level of discomfort.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement regarding insulin needles is that they should be used at a 90-degree angle. When injecting insulin, it is not injected into an intramuscular site, but rather into subcutaneous tissue, often at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper administration of the hormone which helps in the utilization and storage of glucose to regulate blood glucose levels.

Regarding pain levels and needle length, shorter needles such as 4 to 5 mm are typically recommended as they are less likely to cause discomfort and are suitable for most patients, contradicting the notion that they cause more pain. It is generally a dull or blunt needle that causes more pain, much like how a dull knife is less effective at cutting than a sharp one, as highlighted in section 11.3, question 9 about pressure.