Question

The nurse is giving a subcutaneous insulin injection to an average size adult. The nurse should select an insulin syringe with

a) 1 1/2 inch, 19 gauge needle

b) 5/8 inch, 27 gauge needle

c) 1 inch, 21 gauge needle

d) 2 inch, 16 gauge needle

Answer 1

ANSWER :

Option b - 5/8 inch , 27 gauge needle.

Reason :

• The skin + subcutaneous tissue thickness for an average adult is 2.25 to 17.85 mm (males) and 4.9 - 21mm (females)
• Subcutaneous injections are given into the fatty tissue just below the skin , so small and short needles are required to give relatively shallow shots.

Range of insulin syringe size that can be used :

• Length : 1 1/2 to 5/8 inches.
• Size : 25 - 30 gauge

Improper selection of syringe length , size and administration of subcutaneous injections can lead to granuloma or abscess formation.