Question

Jane, a diabetic, on oral hypoglycaemic medication, is being discharged from 24-hour observation care. The doctor orders regular, subcutaneous insulin and syringes. Home health is ordered with instructions for the nurse to provide detailed teaching concerning insulin administration. As the nurse assigned to discharge Jane, explain the following information included in the discharge teaching about subcutaneous injections.

1. Common subcutaneous injection sites
2. The angle of the needle’s insertion
3. How the skin is held prior to inserting the needle
4. Choosing the correct needle gauge for the subcutaneous injection
5. Maximum amount of solution administered in a subcutaneous site
6. An explanation of what occurs after the needle is inserted
7. The final step after the drug is injected

Answer 1

1 . Common sites for subcutaneous injection are :

• 2 cm around the navel area around the abdomen.
• Upper part of the front of forearm.
• Front area of the thighs.
• Upper part of the buttocks.

2. The angle of insertion of subcutaneous injection is 45 degree angle and the skin must be pinched with the fingers together to hold the skin and subcutaneous fat.

3 . For subcutaneous insulin injection, 23 to 25 gauge needle is preffered.

4 . 1 to 1.5 mL is the maximum amount that can be administered subcutaneously.

5 . After the needle is inserted, withdraw a bit to ensure the needle is not in blood vessels and then the volume is inserted.

6. After administration of insulin , just withdraw the syringe and place the cotton on the site. Do not rub the site as this will cause the insulin absorption to be faster.

Thank you.