Before discharge, a nurse teaches a school-aged child with type 1 diabetes who self-administers insulin. Which preparation is essential before practicing actual injections?

• A. Rely on caregiver to administer
• B. Practice on a non-medicated insulin pen first
• C. Skip teaching until follow-up
• D. Use only regular insulin without intermediate acting

Answer: (B)

The essential step is to practice with a non-medicated insulin pen to learn the injection technique safely before handling real insulin. Using a trainer pen lets the child learn how to hold the device, prime it, dial a dose, choose and rotate an injection site, insert the needle at the correct angle, and dispose of materials—without the risk of giving an incorrect dose. This hands-on practice builds familiarity, confidence, and competence so the child can self-administer safely. Relying on a caregiver, skipping teaching, or focusing on insulin type without mastering technique would delay or undermine the child’s ability to inject correctly.