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  • Some medications are to be given into subcutaneous tissue, which is the fatty layer of tissue just under the skin. They are sometimes called 'Sub-Q' injections.
  • The medication is slowly absorbed when it is given this way.
  • A small, short needle is used to give this type of injection.
  • The doctor may order a medication that can be used to numb the skin where the injection is to be given.

Preparing for the Injection

  1. Wash hands thoroughly and select a clean surface to set up supplies.
  2. If medication is stored in refrigerator, remove it at least 30 minutes prior to giving.
  3. Check label for correct medication name and expiration date.
  4. Check doctor's order for dosage amount.

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    Gather Supplies

    • Medication
    • Syringe with needle
    • Alcohol pad
    • Gauze or cotton ball
    • Band-aid – if needed
    • Tube of numbing medication and clear dressing - if ordered

    Select an Injection Site

    1. The injection is to be given into subcutaneous tissue on the upper arms, upper thighs, or abdomen. The skin should not be red, swollen, or bruised.
    2. A different site should be used each time you give the medication to avoid soreness or irritation at any one site.
    3. Keep track of the sites used. If injections will be given for a length of time, it is best to set up a pattern for site rotation.
    4. If using a numbing medication, apply it to the selected site and cover with a clear dressing. Allow enough time for medication to take effect, usually 1 hour. (See medication instructions.)

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    Prepare Site / Draw Up Medication

    1. Clean selected site with alcohol pad, wiping in circular motion. If numbing medication was applied, remove clear dressing and wipe off numbing medication with gauze pad and then clean skin with alcohol. If the medication is already in a syringe and is ready to give, go to next section.
    2. Take cover off vial of medication.
    3. Clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol pad for 15 seconds.
    4. Remove syringe from package. If needle is not attached, then attach needle to syringe. Pull back safety cover on needle.
    5. Pull back on the plunger to put air into the syringe equal to the ordered amount of medication.
    6. Pull needle cover straight off.
    7. Put needle straight into the vial of medication and push in the air. Keep plunger pushed down.
    8. Turn the bottle upside down. Make sure the tip of the needle is in the liquid and draw medication into the syringe. Draw up slightly more than is needed.
    9. Remove syringe from the vial and gently tap the syringe until any air bubbles rise to the top of the syringe.
    10. Push on plunger to remove the any air from the syringe and to get the ordered amount of medication.

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    Give the Medication

    1. Hold the syringe with the medication like you are holding a pencil.
    2. With your other hand, pinch the outside area of the skin that was cleaned with alcohol.
    3. Quickly push the needle into the skin that is being pinched. The needle should be at a slight angle.
    4. Let go of the skin and slowly push down on the plunger until all of the medication is given.
    5. Pull the needle out quickly. Cover the site with cotton ball or gauze pad.
    6. Push safety cover over needle and drop the syringe and needle into the sharps container.
    7. Apply band-aid if needed.

    Contact Us

    For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.

    Rev. 9/07