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Insulin Considerations
Important Considerations When Using Insulin
Using insulin is not difficult to learn. Usually, a doctor, pharmacist, nurse, or diabetes educator can provide sufficient training to the patient. Insulin comes in different strengths. Most manufactures recommend that insulin be stored in the refrigerator (not the freezer!) when not in use. Insulin should not be used after the expiration date shown on the package. It is also important to learn to recognize the normal appearance of insulin. Regular insulin should be clear. NPHâ, Lenteâ, and Ultralenteâinsulin should be cloudy. But no type of insulin should have any little specks (called precipitates) floating in it. If the insulin doesn't look right, it should not be used. Most important of all is that the patient uses the insulin exactly as directed by the doctor. Insulin has a very strong effect on blood sugar. Taking the wrong type of insulin or the wrong dose of insulin can have serious consequences. Insulin should not be mixed unless the patient has been instructed to do so.
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