What should a nurse teach a newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus client regarding insulin administration?

Rotating injection sites within the same area is an important practice for insulin administration in individuals with diabetes. This technique helps to avoid lipodystrophy, which is a condition characterized by the thickening or atrophy of the skin and underlying tissues due to repeated use of the same injection site. By rotating sites, insulin absorption can remain consistent and effective, and the risk of skin complications decreases.

Using the abdomen as the only site for injections is not advised, as it may lead to tissue damage or inconsistent insulin absorption. Likewise, while it's crucial not to inject in the exact same spot each time, completely avoiding the same area can make it difficult for patients to manage their injections effectively and can lead to discomfort or other issues. Additionally, a 20 gauge needle would be too large for insulin injections, which typically require much smaller gauge needles to ensure proper delivery and minimize discomfort. Smaller gauge needles help in providing a more comfortable injection experience and are more suitable for the subcutaneous delivery of insulin.