Subcutaneous Injection(Self-Injection)Pronounced: Sub-q-TAIN-ee-us In-JEK-shun
by
Skye Schulte, MS, MPH DefinitionA subcutaneous (sub-Q) injection is a shot that delivers medication into the layer of fat between the skin and the muscle. This type of injection can be given by a healthcare professional, or it can be self-injected.
Reasons for Procedure TOPSome medications need to be injected because they are not effective if taken by mouth. Subcutaneous injections are an easy way to deliver this type of medication. Examples of medications given by sub-Q injection include:
Possible Complications TOPAny break in the skin can increase the risk of infection. However, following the steps outlined below will help prevent infection. What to Expect TOPPrior to Procedure
Giving the Subcutaneous Injection
General Injection Tips TOP
Will It Hurt? TOPThe needles for sub-Q injection are very thin and short, so pain is usually minimal. You may have some soreness later. Tips for Minimizing Injection Pain TOP
If the shots are for your child:
Call Your Doctor TOPContact your doctor if you develop complications such as:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away. RESOURCES:National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease: National Institutes of Health http://www.niddk.nih.gov/ NIH Clinical Center http://www.cc.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Diabetes Association http://www.diabetes.ca Cancer Care Ontario http://www.cancercare.on.ca References:Giving a subcutaneous injection. National Institutes of Health website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated June 2012. Accessed December 15, 2017. Selecting, evaluating, and using sharps disposal containers website. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—National Institure for Occupational Safety and Health website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) December 15, 2017. Last reviewed December 2017 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael Woods, MD, FAAP Last Updated: 5/16/2017 |
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