Injecting medication under the skin, often called a subcutaneous injection, involves a specific technique to ensure safe and effective delivery. This process is commonly used for various medications, including insulin and certain vaccinations.
Steps for Subcutaneous Injections
Here's a breakdown of how to administer subcutaneous injections, based on best practices:
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Preparation:
- Gather all necessary supplies, including the medication, syringe, needle, alcohol wipes, and a sharps container.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe, allowing it to air dry.
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Skin Preparation:
- According to the reference, pinch a 2-inch fold of skin between your thumb and index finger. This creates a raised area for the injection and helps ensure you are injecting into the subcutaneous layer.
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Injection Technique:
- Hold the syringe like a pencil or a dart.
- Insert the needle at a 45 to 90 degree angle to the pinched-up skin, depending on the length of the needle and the amount of subcutaneous tissue. A 45-degree angle is often used for people with less subcutaneous tissue, while a 90-degree angle is suitable for those with more tissue.
- The reference states the needle should be completely covered by skin to ensure the medication is delivered to the correct layer.
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Administering the Medication:
- Push the plunger of the syringe to inject the medication at a steady pace.
- Once the medication is injected, remove the needle quickly at the same angle that was used to insert it.
- Do not massage the injection site unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.
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Aftercare:
- Immediately dispose of the used needle and syringe in a sharps container.
- If necessary, apply a bandage over the injection site.
Important Considerations
- Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for injection sites and dosages.
- Rotate injection sites to prevent skin issues, such as lipohypertrophy (lumps under the skin) or lipoatrophy (indentation of the skin).
- If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider.
