SubQ Injections (M5B)

Question 1

subcutaneous injections

Answer 1

• involves depositing meds into loose connective tissue underlying dermis
• meds absorbed more slowly than IM injections
• exercise, application of heat or cold influences rate of drug absorption
• any condition that impaired blood flow contraindicates subQ injections
• often experience pain w/ injection
• only small vol of water-soluble meds admin subQ to adults (0.5-1.5mL)

Question 2

ideal sites for subQ injection

Answer 2

• outer upper arm
• abd below umbilicus (esp thin pts)
• back of upper thighs
• site free of lesions, bony prominences, large underlying muscles/nerves

Question 3

needle for subQ injections

Answer 3

• typically use 25 gauge, 16mm needle inserted at 45 degree angle
• can pinch 5cm (2inch) of tissue = insert at 90 deg
• can pinch only 2.5cm (1inch) = insert at 45 deg
• shorter 4-5mm needles associated w/ less pain
• admin insulin –> 4-8mm recommended

Question 4

pediatric considerations for subQ injections

Answer 4

• admin small amounts up to 0.5mL in small children

Question 5

admin insulin subQ

Answer 5

• most pts manage type 1 DM w/ insulin injections
• considered a high-alert med
• most quickly absorbed in abd and most slowly in thighs (abd –> arms –> thighs)
• timing critical
• plan injection time based on BG lvls, when pt will eat, onset, peak and duration of insulin admin

Question 6

admin heparin subQ

Answer 6

• heparin provides anticoagulation to reduce risk of thrombus formation
• monitor coagulation blood tests
• assess for inc risk for hemorrrhage present
• given subQ on R or L side of abd, at least 5cm away from umbilicus
• do not expel airbubble in syringe before giving med