Hypodermic-Subcutaneous Injection
By this route the drug is mainly absorbed into the blood stream by way of the lymphatic drainage.
- Absorption is slower by this route. Hence those drugs which are gradually absorbed are to be given.
- Commonly chosen site is usually outer aspect of the upper arm and the anterior or lateral aspects of the thigh.
- Pinch the skin between the thumb and first or second finger of the left hand and the needle is inserted at an angle of 45" to within 2 mm.
- With the left hand support the needle on the syringe and with the right hand inject the fluid smoothly, and slowly into the subcutaneous tissue. When the contents of the syringe is ejected withdraw the needle and hold the swab over the site.
- Massage in an upward direction to help disperse the fluid.
- It the patient gets the drug through this route often, rotate the site. If the drug is insulin, insert the needle at 90" to reduce formation of fibrous tissue.