The incidence of diabetes continues to rise worldwide (Tönnies et al., 2019). When the studies of the International Diabetes Federation are analyzed, it is predicted that the number of individuals with diabetes will increase by 46 % in the world by 2045 (Sun et al., 2022). Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood (Foster et al., 2019; Mylavarapu et al., 2023). Insulin therapy is a fundamental component in the management of diabetes, especially for individuals with type 1 diabetes and advanced type 2 diabetes. The management of type 1 diabetes requires lifelong attention to blood glucose levels and insulin dosage (Corathers et al., 2023). Considering the importance of frequent injections and correct dosing in insulin therapy, the use of insulin pens provides significant convenience for diabetes patients (Sparre et al., 2023). Correct injection technique is vital to ensure optimal insulin absorption and positive clinical outcomes (Zhou et al., 2024). Improper technique or use of unsuitable needles can adversely affect insulin absorption, leading to imbalances in blood glucose control and an increased risk of diabetes-related complications. Therefore, the correct administration of insulin plays a critical role for the effectiveness of the treatment and the overall health of the patient. It is important to know the correct injection techniques with an insulin pen in order to maximize the efficiency of insulin therapy and avoid some injection complications (Tonolo et al., 2024).

In recent years, diabetes-related technologies have advanced rapidly, particularly in the management of type 1 diabetes. Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors are now commonly used. Their integration into automated insulin delivery systems enables real-time insulin dose adjustments through algorithm-based software and sensor-derived glucose data, helping to prevent abnormal glycemic fluctuations (Pauley et al., 2021). However, the adoption of insulin pumps and automated insulin delivery systems remains limited due to various barriers such as high cost, physical burden, and parental concerns (Demir et al., 2022; Pauley et al., 2021).

With the widespread adoption of digital technology, YouTube has become a platform that offers unique advantages for health education and is increasingly used to disseminate health information to a wide audience (Azer et al., 2022; Küçükakkaş & İnce, 2022). This platform could have a potential impact on public health behaviors and decision-making (del Fernandez-Alvarez et al., 2024). However, the unregulated nature of the platform makes it necessary to assess the quality and accuracy of the content. There are many studies in the literature on YouTube videos containing health information. While most of these studies reveal that the content is often inadequate or misleading, some argue that the platform can be a valuable educational resource (Azer et al., 2022; del Fernandez-Alvarez et al., 2024; Gülhan Güner et al., 2024). It has been emphasized that YouTube has significant potential for interactivity and visual learning, especially in areas such as pediatric patient and parent education (Akca Sumengen et al., 2024; Özçevik Subaşi et al., 2024; Semerci et al., 2024). To our knowledge, there is no study in literature that evaluates the quality, appropriateness, and usefulness of YouTube videos as a source of information on the use of insulin pens for injections in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content, reliability and quality of YouTube videos on insulin pen injection in children.

What are the most common correct or incorrect procedural steps during insulin pen injection in children?

How reliable is the content of YouTube videos on insulin pen injection in children?

What is the quality level of YouTube videos on insulin pen injection in children?