Skill 6b: Giving a Subcutaneous (S/C) Injection

Task: perform a subcutaneous (S/C) injection correctly and safely (on a manikin).

Criteria for satisfactory completion of task: when all relevant aspects of the task
governed by the following principles, are demonstrated:
 adequate preparation of the patient and the tools for the procedure
 conduct of the procedure adheres strictly to principles of asepsis and
standard precautions
 consideration of patient safety and comfort
 adequate documentation of the procedure
 recognition of limitations and possible complications

Checklist

Expected Actions

1 Preparation
 verify and check the medication to be given
 identify appropriate equipment including size of needle ( 23 G 5/8” in length )

2 Inform the patient of the procedure

3 Wash/disinfect hands

4 Don clean gloves

5 Prepare the medication in a syringe, and place it in a receiver

6 Bring the receiver nearer to the patient

7 Maintain patient’s privacy by exposing only the chosen site

Position the patient according to the injection site chosen

Arm – sitting or standing

Abdomen – sitting or supine

8 Clean site aseptically

9 Hold the syringe with the medication and remove the needle cover

10 Expel air from syringe by

 holding the syringe & needle pointing upward
 tap it up to dislodge bubbles,
 withdraw the plunger slightly
 push plunger upward to eject air
11 Giving the injection:
 Hold syringe & needle upwards in the right palm between thumb & index finger

 Using the left hand pinch the skin tightly across the injection site to facilitate
needle penetration

 Thrust in the needle into the subcutaneous adipose tissue quickly and firmly
into the site at 45-degree angle

(A quick firm insertion minimizes patient anxiety and discomfort. Ensure that the needle
does not enter the muscle tissue.)

 Release the skin once needle is in place

 Using the left hand stabilize the syringe

 Using the right hand gently pull back the plunger a little and observe for
presence of blood

 Inject the medication at a slow and steady pace

 Withdraw the needle quickly in a smooth motion

12 Apply gently pressure to the injection site

13 Ensure patient’s comfort

Observe the patient for any side effects

14 Dispose used syringe & needle into the sharps bin

15 Remove gloves

16 Wash hands

17 Document the procedure

YAW/RL Aug 2013