What should not be done at the injection site when administering insulin?

When administering insulin, massaging the injection site should be avoided because it can alter the absorption rate of the insulin. Insulin is typically injected subcutaneously, and massaging the area can cause the medication to be absorbed too quickly or unevenly, leading to hypoglycemia or unexpected fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Proper technique is essential to ensure that the insulin works effectively and predictably.

Applying heat, using a larger needle, or injecting quickly are practice considerations that can vary based on specific situations or patient needs, but massaging the injection site is consistently discouraged in standard procedures for administering insulin.