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Air shot question

Discussion in 'Insulin' started by LucySW, Dec 28, 2014.

  1. LucySW

    LucySW LADA · Well-Known Member

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    I've only been taking insulin the last two months, low dose basal (Insulatard). My Q, do I need to do an air shot of 1 or 2u before each injection? Often nothing much comes out the first time, so I wouldn't get the full dose. Do I go on till the insulin is flowing properly?

    The DN and my directions (in another language) didn't make this entirely clear.

    Thanks, Lucy
     
    #1 LucySW, Dec 28, 2014 at 7:04 PM
  2. robert72

    robert72 Type 1 · Well-Known Member

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    I usually do 2u just to be sure
     
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    #2 robert72, Dec 28, 2014 at 7:35 PM
  3. leeemerick

    leeemerick Type 2 · Well-Known Member

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    I do 2. If it dribbles out I do it again so I get a streak out.
     
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    #3 leeemerick, Dec 28, 2014 at 7:50 PM
  4. Nuthead

    Nuthead Type 2 · Well-Known Member

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    As above. It needs to be in full flow. :rolleyes:
     
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    #4 Nuthead, Dec 28, 2014 at 8:37 PM
  5. smidge

    smidge LADA · Well-Known Member

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    Yep, agree with the others. Dial up two units, flick the pen a couple of times to get rid of any air bubbles and release the two units. If the flow isn't good, repeat until it is. I think it's particularly important with Insulatard and Insuman because you have to shake them quite a bit to mix them and that leads to air bubbles that can block the flow unless you disperse them.

    Smidge
     
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    #5 smidge, Dec 28, 2014 at 10:27 PM
  6. Robinredbreast

    Robinredbreast Type 1 · Oracle

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    Yes I do 2 to 3 shots, just to make sure all systems are go :)

    RRB
     
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    #6 Robinredbreast, Dec 28, 2014 at 10:30 PM
  7. LucySW

    LucySW LADA · Well-Known Member

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    Thanks guys. I'll carry on doing it then. And Happy New Year!

    Lucy
     
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    #7 LucySW, Dec 29, 2014 at 7:16 AM
  8. noblehead

    noblehead Type 1 · Guru
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    Yes Lucy, you should prime the needle prior to injecting, I do the same as Smidge.
     
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    #8 noblehead, Dec 29, 2014 at 7:26 AM
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