1. Understand the Why

Before going home:

• Do I understand why I’m now on insulin?
• Was insulin started for a short-term illness (infection, surgery, steroids)?
• Have I asked if I can resume my previous medications?

Suggested question:

“Was insulin started just for the hospital, or is this now part of my long-term care?”

2. Know the How: Insulin Basics

• Do I know:
  
  • The name of my insulin(s)?
  • The dose and timing?
  • Where and how to inject safely?
• Have I practiced using:
  
  • A pen or syringe?
  • A glucometer or CGM (if given)?
• Have I been shown how to store insulin properly?

Ask for a demonstration—and practice it yourself using the teach-back method:
“Can I show you how I would give this dose to make sure I’ve got it right?”

3. Know the Risks

• Do I know the signs of low blood sugar?
  
  • Shakiness, sweating, dizziness, hunger, confusion
• Do I have:
  
  • Glucose tablets, juice, or a fast-acting carb on hand?
  • Instructions for what to do during a low blood sugar episode?
• Do I know when to call 911 or seek urgent care?

Suggested reminder:

“What should I do if my blood sugar drops too low—or gets too high after I’m home?”

4. Special Support for Older Adults or Caregivers

• Is my loved one able to:
  
  • Read labels (vision okay)?
  • Draw up or inject (dexterity okay)?
  • Remember the schedule (cognitive function okay)?
• Am I (as caregiver) included in the discharge teaching?
• Do I have a written or printed cheat sheet to follow at home?

 Ask:
“Can you include a family member in this teaching? They’ll be helping at home.”

5. Know What Happens Next

• Do I have a follow-up appointment scheduled within 7–14 days?
• Do I know:
  
  • Who to call with insulin or blood sugar questions?
  • If and when my medications will be reviewed again?
• Have I been referred to a diabetes educator or outpatient program?

Suggested question:
“What’s the plan for follow-up—and who should I contact if I’m unsure or overwhelmed?”

6. Ask for These Before Leaving

• A printed medication list, with clear instructions
• A written insulin schedule, including mealtimes and glucose check times
• A supply of:
  
  • Insulin (pens or vials)
  • Needles or syringes
  • Glucometer + test strips
  • Lancets
  • Sharps container
• Education materials—digital or printed—for home review

Final ask before discharge:
“Can we go over all my supplies and instructions together, just to be sure?”

Final Reminder:

Being discharged on insulin isn’t just a treatment plan—it’s a life change. You deserve to leave with knowledge, confidence, and a clear plan.
Speak up. Ask again. Don’t go home in the dark.