A subcutaneous injection is a method of administering medication into the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle. This route of administration is often used for medications that require slow, sustained absorption, such as insulin or certain vaccines. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform a subcutaneous injection:
Steps to Perform a Subcutaneous Injection
- Gather Supplies:
- Medication in a vial or pre-filled syringe
- Sterile syringe and needle (usually 25-30 gauge, 3/8 to 5/8 inch)
- Alcohol swabs or wipes
- Cotton ball or gauze
- Band-aid (if needed)
- Sharps container for needle disposal
- Wash Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
- Prepare the Medication:
- If using a vial, draw the medication into the syringe:
- Remove the cap from the vial.
- Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.
- Pull back the syringe plunger to the desired dose.
- Insert the needle into the vial and push the air in.
- Invert the vial and pull back the plunger to draw the medication.
- Remove any air bubbles by tapping the syringe and pushing the plunger gently to expel the air.
- If using a vial, draw the medication into the syringe:
- Choose an Injection Site: Common sites include the outer upper arm, the abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch radius around the navel), the front of the thighs, or the upper buttocks. Rotate injection sites to avoid tissue damage.
- Clean the Injection Site: Wipe the selected area with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
- Pinch the Skin: Gently pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and forefinger.
- Insert the Needle:
- Hold the syringe like a pencil or dart.
- Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle to the skin, depending on the amount of fatty tissue. For thinner individuals, a 45-degree angle is often used.
- Inject the Medication:
- Push the plunger slowly and steadily to inject the medication.
- Once the medication is injected, withdraw the needle quickly at the same angle it was inserted.
- Dispose of the Needle: Immediately place the used needle and syringe in a sharps container.
- Apply Pressure and Bandage:
- Press the injection site with a cotton ball or gauze for a few seconds.
- Apply a band-aid if needed.
- Wash Hands Again: Clean your hands once more after the procedure.
Tips for Subcutaneous Injections
- Rotation of Sites: To prevent lipodystrophy (hardening or lumps under the skin), rotate injection sites regularly.
- Temperature of Medication: Allow refrigerated medication to reach room temperature before injection to reduce discomfort.
- Comfort: If the injection is painful, applying an ice pack to the site beforehand can help numb the area.