Key Information Before Getting an Injection
Before getting an injection, you should ensure proper technique is used, including site selection, needle size, and injection method, to minimize pain and complications while maximizing effectiveness.
Preparation for Injection
- Ensure the injection site and your hands are clean and dry before receiving an injection. While disinfection is usually not required in non-institutional settings like homes, if alcohol is used, it must dry completely before injection 1.
- Verify that the correct medication is being used by checking the label before administration 1.
- For insulin injections, keep insulin at room temperature for a more comfortable injection, as cold insulin often produces more pain 1.
- If you have anxiety about injections, consider distraction techniques or behavioral therapies to reduce fear 1.
Injection Site Selection
- Different injections require different sites based on the type of medication and injection method:
- For subcutaneous injections: typically administered in the thigh for infants and the upper-outer triceps area for older children and adults 1.
- For intramuscular injections: the anterolateral aspect of the thigh and deltoid muscle of the upper arm are preferred sites. The buttock should not be used routinely due to risk of sciatic nerve injury 1.
- For intradermal injections: usually administered on the volar surface of the forearm 1.
- Never inject into sites of inflammation, edema, ulceration, infection, or lipohypertrophy (lumpy areas from repeated injections) 1.
- For insulin injections, rotate injection sites to ensure proper absorption. Move at least half an inch (1 cm) away from previous injection sites 1.
Needle Selection and Technique
- For subcutaneous injections: A 5/8-inch, 23-25-gauge needle is typically used 1.
- For intramuscular injections: Needle length varies by age and site:
- For insulin injections, shorter needles (4mm) are recommended as they are less painful and reduce risk of intramuscular injection 1.
- Insert the needle through the skin in a smooth but not jabbing movement to minimize pain 1.
During the Injection
- For insulin pen injections, count to 10 after pressing the button before withdrawing the needle to ensure complete dose delivery 1.
- If using an insulin pen, push the button vertically along the axis of the pen and maintain pressure until the needle is completely withdrawn to prevent contamination 1.
- For large volume injections that cause pain, consider dividing into smaller volumes or using higher concentration formulations 1.
After the Injection
- If bleeding or bruising occurs after an injection, this typically doesn't affect medication absorption. However, if bruising continues or hematomas develop, technique should be evaluated 1.
- Occasional sharp pain during injection is usually due to the needle touching a nerve ending randomly and doesn't cause damage. If pain persists, seek medical evaluation 1.
Special Considerations
- For multiple injections, each should be administered at different anatomic sites. If more than two injections must be given in a single limb, they should be separated by at least 1 inch 1.
- Never share injection devices, even with new needles, as this can transmit blood-borne diseases like HIV or hepatitis 1.
- For children and those with needle phobia, consider using the shortest available needle (4mm for insulin) to minimize pain 1.
- If you experience symptoms of injection site infections (redness, swelling, tenderness, abscess, or open wound), seek medical advice promptly rather than delaying treatment 2.