SC Injection Technique

Anterior aspect of the forearm

SC Injection Sites

SC Injection Technique

■ Always observe Pt’s rights and standard precautions. ■ Select and cleanse appropriate site with alcohol swab. ■ Don gloves and hold syringe in dominant hand. ■ With nondominant hand, either pinch or spread skin. ■ Note: If <1 inch can be pinched between fingers, pinch skin and insert needle at 45-degree angle. If >1 inch can be pinched, spread the skin and insert needle at 90-degree angle. ■ Insert needle to hub with one steady motion. ■ Do not aspirate when administering heparin or insulin; otherwise, aspirate to ensure that needle is not in blood vessel. ■ Inject medication and withdraw needle. ■ Apply gentle pressure to site using sterile gauze (avoid massaging site, which can injure underlying tissues); if injecting heparin, hold gentle pressure for 30–60 seconds. ■ Discard equipment per facility guidelines. ■ Document medication, dose, site of injection, and Pt’s response to medication.