Subcutaneous Injection

Some medication is injected just beneath the skin, in the sub-cutaneous space.

This space tends to hold medication for a longer time than muscle, slowly releasing the medication into the circulation.

Almost any place on the body can be used for a subcutaneous (SQ) injection, but the back of the upper arm is the most common site.

Wipe the injection site clean with an antiseptic solution, such as alcohol.

Pinch the back of the arm with your thumb and forefinger, creating a bulge.

Direct the needle at a 45 degree angle, through the skin and into the SQ space. Insert the needle smoothly and rapidly to minimize patient discomfort.

Aspirate to make sure you haven't entered a blood vessel. If you get a blood return, remove the needle, get a fresh needle, and try again.

If the aspiration is negative, then inject the medication.

Remove the needle and massage the site of injection.

The back of the arm is a good injection site.

After cleansing with an antiseptic solution, pinch the skin, creating a bulge.

Insert the needle at a 45 degree angle.

Aspirate before injecting.

Then inject the medication, withdraw the needle, and massage the injection site.

This section is based on A1701-78-1114V, "Injections: Subcutaneous" Health Sciences Media Division, US Army Medical Department C&S, Fort Sam Houston, Texas

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