Skip main navigation

How is the route of administration of insulin decided?

Helps the learner to be familiar with the reasons for deciding on the most appropriate method of insulin administration
© University of Southampton

Generally, if someone can eat and drink, then the use of subcutaneous insulin to regulate their blood glucose levels is appropriate.

The use of insulin intravenously by infusion is appropriate when:

  • The patient has recurrent vomiting
  • The patient is nil by mouth
  • The patient is missing more than 1 meal (e.g. an operation or procedure)
  • The patient is severely ill and good glucose control is needed
© University of Southampton
This article is from the free online

Understanding Insulin

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now