In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the perpendicular technique for subcutaneous injections. We will discuss everything from the preparation to the execution of the injection and possible complications.
What is Subcutaneous Injecting? #
Subcutaneous injections, or subcutaneous injections, are a method of administering medication that is injected under the skin, into the adipose tissue. These types of injections are often used for medications that need to be slowly absorbed by the body.
What is the Perpendicular Technique? #
The perpendicular technique is a method of administering subcutaneous injections in which the needle is inserted at a 90-degree angle. This is ideal for people with a sufficient layer of fat.
Step 1: Preparation #
Before administering the injection, it is important that both the person giving the injection and the person receiving the injection feel comfortable. It is crucial to have a clean and well-lit environment. It is also important to choose the right needle size depending on the size and fat layer of the patient.
It is also essential to bring the medication to room temperature before injecting it. This can help to reduce discomfort during the injection.
Step 2: Choosing the injection site #
The most common sites for subcutaneous injections are the abdomen, the back of the upper arms, the thighs, and the top of the buttocks. It is important to rotate the injection sites to avoid skin problems.
Step 3: Performing the Injection #
After preparing and choosing the injection site, it is time to perform the injection. Here are the steps for the perpendicular technique:
Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe and let it dry.
Take the syringe in your dominant hand between your thumb and index finger, like a dart.
Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle.
Pull the plunger back a little to check for blood. If blood gets into the syringe, pull the needle out of the skin and start again with a new syringe and in a new place.
If there is no blood, slowly inject the medication.
Pull the needle straight out and press a gauze pad onto the injection site.
Potential complications and how to prevent them #
While subcutaneous injections are generally safe, some complications can occur. Among the most common are pain at the injection site, bruising, infection, and lipodystrophy.
Pain and bruising can be reduced by rotating the injection sites, bringing the medication to room temperature, not pinching the skin during the injection, and inserting and pulling out the needle quickly.
Infections can be prevented by cleaning the injection site with alcohol before the injection and by not reusing the needle.
Lipodystrophy, changes in the fatty tissue under the skin, can occur with repeated injections in the same place. This can be prevented by rotating the injection sites.
Conclusion #
Correctly administering a subcutaneous injection using the perpendicular technique can take time to learn, but with patience and practice, it can become a routine procedure. It is always important to ask your healthcare provider questions if you are unsure.
