The Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) has launched an online learning tool to assist diabetes educators remain up-to-date with the latest injection techniques and ensure patients understand the importance of correct technique.
Speaking at the Australian Diabetes Society and Australian Diabetes Educators Association Annual Scientific Meeting, Giuliana Murfet, ADEA Board Director said, "Correct injection technique is as important to achieving optimal glycaemic levels as the type and dose of insulin delivered."
Research has revealed that 79% of insulin injecting Australians with type 1 and 2 diabetes used pen needles that were 8mm and greater in length, compared to 55 per cent of diabetes patients internationally.
In recommendations released by the ADEA in 2011, shorter needles (4, 5 and 6mm) were identified as more suitable for children, adolescents, adults and obese patients, and highlighted as providing equivalent glycaemic control as larger needles.
"Education is paramount to assisting patients’ transition to shorter pen needles, reduce injection related complications, improve treatment compliance and achieve glycaemic control," said Ms Aylen.
To ensure patients have comfortable and complication-free injections it is recommended that the following topics are discussed; Injection regimen and technique; Optimal needle length; Choice and management of devices used; Care and examination of injection sites; Injection complications; and Safe sharps disposal.
"Diabetes education should be customised to each patient. This should include a diabetes lifestyle plan that reflects the injection device selected," said Ms Aylen.
The new e-learning module can be accessed by ADEA members through the ADEA website. ADEA would like to acknowledge the support of BD for the e-learning module and it’s launch during their breakfast session.