Effect of Insulin Storage and Administration Methods on Long Term Glycaemic Control among Adult Diabetic Patients in a Kenyan Referral Hospital

Abstract

Insulin storage methods and the techniques of its administration impact on blood
sugar control. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the
effects of insulin administration techniques and storage on the long term control of
blood glucose among 73 freely consenting adult diabetic outpatients at Kenyatta
National Hospital. Participants were selected through convenient sampling and
interviewed using a pre-designed questionnaire. Long term glycaemia control was
assessed by measuring the blood levels of glycated haemoglobin. Ethical approval
was granted by the institutional review board and participants’ confidentiality was
maintained throughout the study. Data analysis was done using STATA version 10
software; with statistical significance set at 95% confidence limit. Logistic
regression was used to determine associations between glycated haemoglobin levels
versus insulin storage methods and the administration techniques. Correct
performance of the critical injection techniques (p=0.0001), insulin storage by
refrigeration (p=0.041) and during travel (p=0.019) were associated with good long
term glycaemic control. Patients need to be regularly encouraged on good insulin
injection techniques and storage methods in order to improve long term glycaemic
control.

Key words: Insulin storage, injection technique, glycated haemoglobin, glycaemic control