Injections are administered by inserting a needle through the skin to deliver medication into different tissues of the body. The specific method varies based on the type of injection.
Types of Injections
There are several common types of injections, each targeting different layers of tissue:
- Intramuscular (IM) Injections: These injections deliver medication deep into the muscle tissue.
- Subcutaneous (SC) Injections: These injections are administered into the fat tissue located beneath the skin.
Subcutaneous Injection Details
According to the reference, subcutaneous vaccines are injected into the fat tissue directly below the dermis, but above the outer triceps of the arm muscle.
- Needle Gauge and Length: For a subcutaneous injection, a 22 to 25 gauge needle is typically used with appropriate needle length.
Detailed Process
While the specifics of administering injections vary, the basic process generally involves:
- Preparation: Washing hands and cleaning the injection site with an antiseptic.
- Needle Insertion: Inserting the needle into the tissue at the correct angle and depth.
- Medication Delivery: Slowly injecting the medication.
- Needle Removal: Withdrawing the needle and applying pressure to the injection site.
Key Considerations
- Injection Site: The location of the injection depends on the type of injection. For example, subcutaneous injections are often given on the arm, abdomen or thigh.
- Needle Selection: The size and gauge of the needle are chosen based on factors such as the patient's size and the medication being administered.
- Proper Technique: Using the correct technique is essential to ensure the medication is delivered properly and to minimize the risk of complications.
