Independent insulin administration by the hemiplegic patient: stabilization of an insulin pen with a new device.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for stroke, and the incidence of diabetes in patients presenting with stroke is 16% to 20%. Administration of insulin is an important activity of daily living that should be addressed in hemiplegic patients with diabetes. Presented here is a table-top clamp that can be used with an insulin pen allowing independent insulin dosing and subcutaneous administration with one hand. The clamp is built on a wood block base that is mounted to a smooth table surface by suction cups. Construction of the device is simple, inexpensive, and can be incorporated as a therapeutic project for the patient during the rehabilitation stay. A diabetic patient with a left hemiplegia is presented who demonstrated independence with the device prior to her discharge home.