Subcutaneous Injection
(Self-Injection)
Definition
A subcutaneous (sub-Q) injection is a shot that delivers medicine into the layer of fat between the skin and the muscle. It may be given by a healthcare provider or it can be self-injected.
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
Reasons for Procedure
Some medicines are not as effective when taken by mouth. Sub-Q injections are an easy way to deliver this type of medicine. Some medicines given this way are:
- Insulin for people with diabetes
- Some medicines that help prevent blood clots
Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Infection
- Allergic reaction
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
- Make sure all the items you will need are nearby, such as the syringe, medicine, and cleaning supplies.
- Wash hands with warm, soapy water. Dry with a clean towel.
- Select a site. Clean the area (about 2 inches) with a fresh alcohol wipe.
- Wait for the site to dry.
Giving the Injection
- Remove the needle cap.
- Pinch a 2-inch fold of skin between your thumb and index finger.
- Hold the syringe like a pencil or dart. Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle to the pinched-up skin. (The needle should be fully covered by skin.)
- Slowly push the plunger all the way down to inject the medicine.
- Remove the needle from the skin.
- Apply a bandage if there is bleeding at the site.
- Put the syringe and needle into a container that is puncture-proof.
- Dispose of the waste using a service in your area.
Tips
- Change your site in a regular pattern.
- Give new injections at least 1.5 inches away from the last site.
Will It Hurt?
Soreness is common after the injection.
Tips to Minimize Injection Pain
- Inject medicine 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 gets better.
- 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 ease discomfort.
- Distract your child with a book, a toy, or TV. Try breastfeeding or using a pacifier for infants.
Call Your Doctor
Call the doctor if you have any problems, such as:
- Not being able to give yourself the injection
- Bleeding
- A lot of pain
- Injecting the medicine in the wrong area
- Fever, rash, or signs of an allergic reaction
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.
RESOURCES:
Clinical Center—National Institues of Health
http://www.cc.nih.gov
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease—National Institutes of Health
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.ca
Cancer Care Ontario
http://www.cancercare.on.ca
REFERENCES:
How to give a subcutaneous injection. Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/patient-corner/how-to-give-a-subcutaneous-injection. Accessed November 18, 2021.
Selecting, evaluating, and using sharps disposal containers website. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—National Institure for Occupational Safety and Health website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97-111. Accessed November 18, 2021.
Last reviewed November 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Mary-Beth Seymour, RN Last Updated: 11/18/2021