A newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic requires education on insulin administration. Why should the nurse instruct the patient to rotate insulin injection sites?

Explanation

•Lipodystrophy occurs when the body continuously pulls insulin from the subcutaneous fat in one area, causing atrophy of the subcutaneous tissue at that injection site. This creates divots in the skin which are irreversible, appearing like the skin of an orange peel

•Lipodystrophy can cause unpredictable insulin absorption in the affected area. This can be avoided by rotating injection sites.

•Incorrect options: Rotating injection sites does not reduce drug duration or improve distribution, and it will not prevent pain.

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