Which injection technique should a nurse teach an obese client for self-administering insulin?

The recommended practice for administering insulin in obese clients involves spreading the tissue and injecting at a 90-degree angle. This technique is effective because it ensures that the insulin is delivered into the subcutaneous fat layer where it is intended to be absorbed, rather than into the muscle.

In obese individuals, the subcutaneous layer may be thicker, and spreading the skin helps to ensure that the injection reaches this area, facilitating optimal absorption. By injecting at a 90-degree angle, the nurse helps to ensure that the needle penetrates adequately into the subcutaneous tissue without inadvertently reaching muscle, which could lead to quicker absorption rates and unpredictable blood glucose control.

The other options suggest different techniques that may not be suitable for obese individuals. Injecting at a 45-degree angle might not be sufficient for reaching the subcutaneous tissue in those with more body fat. Injecting into the muscle could lead to issues with insulin absorption and variability in blood glucose levels. Lastly, inserting the needle at a 30-degree angle may also risk missing the subcutaneous layer, particularly in patients with excess fat. Thus, using the 90-degree technique after spreading the skin is the most appropriate approach for ensuring effective insulin delivery in this population.