Can you give a subcutaneous injection in the thigh?
A subcutaneous (say “sub-kyoo-TAY-nee-us”) shot is an injection of medicine under the skin, but not in a muscle. Some medicines, such as insulin or the blood-thinner enoxaparin (Lovenox), are injected only under the skin. This type of shot is usually given in the belly or the thigh.
Where do you give a subcutaneous injection in the thigh?
Preparing for a subcutaneous injection The most common injection sites are: Abdomen: at or under the level of the belly button, about two inches away from the navel. Arm: back or side of the upper arm. Thigh: front of the thigh.
What are the 3 best sites for subcutaneous injection?
The best areas on your body to give yourself a SQ injection are:
- Upper arms. At least 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) below your shoulder and 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) above your elbow, on the side or back.
- Outer side of upper thighs.
- Belly area.
What happens if a subcutaneous injection goes into the muscle?
However, subcutaneous injections can cause abscesses and granulomas. Muscle is probably spared the harmful effects of substances injected into it because of its abundant blood supply.
Do you have to pinch skin for subcutaneous injection?
PHE (2013) recommends that subcutaneous vaccinations are given with the needle at a 45-degree angle to the skin and the skin should be pinched together (PHE, 2013).
How do you make subcutaneous injections less painful?
To reduce the pain and fear associated with regular injections, try numbing the injection site with ice and/or a numbing cream. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best sites for intramuscular or subcutaneous injections, and rotate the injection site if there is any pain or bruising.
Do you draw back subcutaneous injection?
It is common practice to draw back on a syringe after the needle has been inserted to check whether it is in a blood vessel. This is not recommended for subcutaneous injections as this is unlikely to occur (Lister et al, 2020).
Can you give a subcutaneous injection wrong?
Are there any complications? The most common complication of a subcutaneous injection is pain near the injection site for 1 to 2 days afterward. Pain near the injection site can happen when inserting the needle at the wrong angle, or when it moves slightly during the injection.
Do you massage area after subcutaneous injection?
Do not massage area after injection. Withdrawing at the same angle as insertion minimizes discomfort to the patient and damage to the tissue. Proper needle disposal prevents needle-stick injuries. Massaging the area may spread the solution to the underlying subcutaneous tissue.