What is crucial for a patient care technician to do before administering insulin injections to a diabetic patient?

Reviewing proper injection techniques is vital for a patient care technician prior to administering insulin injections. This ensures that the technician is equipped with the necessary knowledge about the specific steps involved in the procedure, which can include selecting the appropriate injection site, preparing the insulin safely, using the correct needle gauge, and understanding the right angle to administer the injection. Proper technique minimizes the risk of complications, such as infection or incorrect dosing, which can have serious consequences for the patient’s health.

In addition to the technical aspect, reviewing the technique reinforces adherence to infection control procedures, which is crucial for patient safety. This preparation ultimately promotes optimal outcomes for the patient. While gathering family members, discussing preferred injection times, or debriefing with staff may have their importance in the overall care process, they do not address the immediate requirement of ensuring that the injection itself is performed accurately and effectively.