Mind Over Mellitus

The Inner Game of Diabetes

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DIY Flu Shot?

January 4th, 2010 · 2 Comments

I went to the doctor today for a checkup and an H1N1 shot. Personally, I prefer to administer my own flu shots — pain for me is less scary if I’m in control of it. I’m pretty used to this because I take insulin directly into my shoulder when my blood glucose is high.

Whether you are inclined to give your own flu shot or not, ask your nurse for a 31 gauge needle, ideally. If that’s not available, ask for a 29 gauge  needle. These are the thinnest needles I know of that can still deliver a lot of fluid. Note: the higher the gauge, the smaller the needle. My doctor’s office defaults to a 26 gauge, which looks pretty big to me.

Next, simply ask to give the shot yourself. The nurse may need to ask the doctor, but I’ve never been turned down. Note: I don’t recommend this if you are squeamish or don’t have the flexibility to reach around and deliver the injection.

Tags: DIY · Great Habits

2 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Антон Павлович // Mar 22, 2010 at 3:42 am

     I’m pretty used to this because I take insulin directly into my shoulder when my blood glucose is high.
    Whether you are […….

    Подтверждаю. Я согласен со всем выше сказанным….

  • 2 Kylie Batt // Apr 20, 2010 at 8:57 am

    Я могу много говорить по этому вопросу….

    Компания протяжении  I’m pretty used to this because I take insulin directly into my shoulder when my blood glucose is high.
    Whether you are […….

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