Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Injection Technique
Subcutaneous Injection Sites
A Subcutaneous injection is is an injection into the highly vascular layer beneath the epidermis where absorbed steadily (at a slower rate than intramuscular route). If frequent subcutaneous injections are necessary, consideration should be given a winged infusion device (see Siting of a Subcutaneous Infusion Device).
- 1 inch skin fold recommended
- Lateral aspects of upper arm
- Lateral aspects of thigh
- Lower abdomen (this should be at least 3cm from the naval, inferior or lateral)
- The areas identified in red are commonly used general areas for SC injections.
- Caution: Some medications specify the site to be adminstered e.g. Enoxaparin in left or right anteriolateral or posterolateral abdominal wall. Details can be found in the medications data sheet, available at: medicines.org
- Review a good anatomy book to identify underlying structures which need to be avoided.