Dalteparin is injected subcutaneously (under the skin), typically in the abdomen. While this information provides a general overview, always follow your doctor's specific instructions and consult the patient information leaflet included with your medication. If you are unsure about any step, contact your healthcare provider.
Here's a general guide:
Steps for Injecting Dalteparin:
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Gather Supplies: You will need a pre-filled syringe of dalteparin and alcohol swabs.
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Wash Your Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.
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Prepare the Injection Site: Choose an injection site on your abdomen, at least two inches away from your belly button, scars, or any areas that are bruised, tender, or hard. Avoid injecting into the same spot each time. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry.
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Prepare the Syringe: Remove the syringe from its packaging. Do not remove the air bubble (if present), as pre-filled syringes often contain a small air bubble to ensure the full dose is administered. Removing the air bubble can lead to an incorrect dose.
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Pinch the Skin: Gently pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and forefinger at the cleaned injection site.
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Insert the Needle: Insert the needle straight into the pinched skin at a 90-degree angle.
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Inject the Medication: Slowly and steadily push the plunger all the way down to inject the entire dose.
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Hold and Withdraw: Once the dose is injected, hold the pinched skin for a count of 3.
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Remove the Needle: Pull the needle straight out of the skin at the same 90-degree angle.
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Release the Skin: Release the pinched skin after removing the needle.
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Apply Gentle Pressure: Apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze. Do not rub the injection site, as this can cause bruising.
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Dispose of the Syringe: Immediately dispose of the used syringe in a sharps container. Do not recap the needle.
Important Considerations:
- Rotation of Injection Sites: Rotate injection sites to avoid skin irritation and lipohypertrophy (lumps under the skin).
- Air Bubbles: As mentioned before, do not remove the air bubble from pre-filled syringes, unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Bleeding: If bleeding occurs after the injection, apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops.
- Bruising: Some bruising at the injection site is common. If you experience excessive bruising, pain, or swelling, contact your doctor.
- Storage: Store dalteparin as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
When to Contact Your Doctor:
- If you have any questions or concerns about injecting dalteparin.
- If you experience any unusual side effects.
- If you miss a dose of dalteparin.
- If you have difficulty injecting dalteparin.
- If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to inject dalteparin.
