Prior to Procedure

• Make sure you have all of the items you will need easily available: syringe, medication, cleaning materials, etc.
• Wash hands with warm, soapy water. Dry with a clean towel.
• Select a site. Cleanse the area (about 2 inches) with a fresh alcohol wipe.
• Wait for the site to dry.

Giving the Subcutaneous Injection

• Remove the needle cap.
• Pinch a 2-inch fold of skin between your thumb and index finger.
• Hold the syringe the way you would a pencil or dart. Insert the needle at about a 45-degree angle to the pinched-up skin. (The needle should be completely covered by skin.).
• Slowly push the plunger all the way down to inject the medication.
• Remove the needle from the skin.
• If there is bleeding at the site of injection, apply a bandage.
• Immediately put the syringe and needle into a container that is puncture-proof.
• Find out what services are available in your area for disposing of biological waste.

General Injection Tips    TOP

• Change your injection site in a regular pattern.
• Give new injections at least 1.5 inches away from the last injection site.

Will It Hurt?    TOP

The needles for sub-Q injection are very thin and short, so pain is usually minimal. You may have some soreness later.

Tips for Minimizing Injection Pain    TOP

• Inject medication that is at room temperature.
• Remove all air bubbles from the syringe before injection.
• Break through the skin quickly.
• Do not change the direction of the needle as it goes in or comes out.
• Do not reuse disposable needles.

If the shots are for your child:

• The shots will be less painful as your child gets used to them and your technique improves.
• Before the injection, press gently in the area to find places where the skin is less sensitive.
• Change the site of the injections each time to reduce discomfort.
• Provide a distraction during the injection. Let your child read a book, play with a toy, or watch TV. Try breastfeeding or using a pacifier for infants.