What is the first step a nurse should take when teaching a school-age child how to self-administer insulin?

Demonstrating the injection technique on an orange serves as an excellent first step in teaching a school-age child how to self-administer insulin. This method allows the child to visualize and understand the process without the risks associated with using a real needle on themselves or others.

Using an orange simulates the texture and resistance of human skin, making the practice meaningful without the complexity of using live tissue. This approach helps build the child’s confidence and familiarity with the injection process before attempting it on themselves, ensuring they grasp the necessary steps and feel more comfortable about self-injecting when the time comes.

In contrast, providing written instructions alone may not be sufficient since younger children often benefit from hands-on learning experiences. Giving a practice injection with a real needle may pose safety risks and could also induce anxiety, which is counterproductive in the learning process. Lastly, asking the child to explain the process presumes they have already mastered it, while they likely need both demonstration and practice to fully understand the mechanics of the injection.