Medication Administration SC-IM

What is the definition of Subcutaneous (SC) injection?

• Subcutaneous (SC) injection is the administration of a medication into tissues just below the dermis of the skin.

• Subcutaneous (SC) injection is the administration of a medication directly into the bloodstream.

• Subcutaneous (SC) injection is the administration of a medication into the muscle tissue.

• Subcutaneous (SC) injection is the administration of a medication into the joint space.

What is the purpose of administering medications subcutaneously?

• To provide many kinds of medications administered subcutaneously such as vaccines, insulin (hypoglycemic medication), and heparin (anticoagulant medication).

• To ensure medications are absorbed instantly into the bloodstream.

• To deliver medications directly into the muscle tissue for rapid effect.

• To administer medications only for local anesthesia.

Which of the following is NOT a common site for SC injections?

• The outer aspect of the upper arms

• The anterior aspect of the thighs

• The abdomen

• The palm of the hand

List any three common sites for SC injections.

• The outer aspect of the upper arms, the anterior aspect of the thighs, the abdomen.

• The scalp, the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands.

• The back of the neck, the inner thighs, the chest.

• The forehead, the lower back, the toes.

Why do SC injection sites need to be rotated?

• To minimize tissue damage, aid absorption, and avoid discomfort.

• To increase the risk of infection at the site.

• To make the injection process more complicated.

• To ensure the medication is not absorbed at all.

Identify two areas marked on the diagram.

• The outer aspect of the upper arms and the abdomen.

• The inner thighs and the lower back.

• The palms and the soles of the feet.

• The neck and the forehead.

What is the usual size of syringe used for subcutaneous injections?

• 5-mL

• 10-mL

• 1- or 2-mL

• 20-mL

For an adult of normal weight, what is the correct angle for an insulin needle during a subcutaneous injection?

• 30 degrees

• 45 degrees

• 60 degrees

• 90 degrees

For a 2-mL syringe, what is the correct angle for subcutaneous injection in an adult of normal weight?

• 30 degrees

• 45 degrees

• 60 degrees

• 90 degrees

Only ______ doses (0.5 to 1 mL) of medication are usually injected via the subcutaneous route.

• small

• large

• irregular

• excessive