3. Subcutaneous injection Flashcards
1
Q
What are the instructions for Subcut injections
A
- 3 checks 5Rs
- Places medication in fat and loose connective tissue under dermis
- Slower absorption due to less vascularity
- Short fine needle (25 gauge)
- Angle 45 degrees if long needle, 90 if short needle
- Rotate sites to avoid lip hypertrophy or lipodystrophy
- Small doses - 0.5-1m
2
Q
Injection sites?
A
- Abdomen (fastest)
- Buttocks (intermediate)
- Unexercised thigh (slowest)
- Muscle not recommended (fast absorption)
3
Q
Safety with Subcut injections
A
- Don’t inject medication within 2 inches (5cm) of umbilicus - avoiding large umbilical veins
- Needle stick injuries - contracting blood born pathogens
- Dispose of sharps immediately into sharps bin
4
Q
Prevention infection from an injection?
A
- Do not let needles touch contaminated surfaces
- Clean bungs with alcohol wipe
- Wash hands and wear gloves
