Injections deliver prescribed medications directly into the body using a needle and syringe. This method is common in home care for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes, those requiring blood thinners, or for rapid medication delivery, such as certain allergic reactions. Administering injections at home requires careful attention to detail and proper technique to ensure safe and effective delivery.
Getting Ready to Give a Shot
Before administering any injection, verify the prescription to confirm the correct medication, dosage, and route of administration (subcutaneous or intramuscular). Gather all supplies: the prescribed medication, a sterile syringe and needle, alcohol wipes, cotton balls or gauze, and a puncture-resistant sharps container. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them completely.
Medication preparation maintains sterility and accuracy. Check the medication’s expiration date and inspect the vial or pre-filled syringe for discoloration or particles. If drawing from a vial, clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. Draw the correct volume of air into the syringe before injecting it into the vial to equalize pressure.
Invert the syringe with the vial, withdraw the medication, and remove any large air bubbles by tapping the syringe and gently pushing the plunger. For site preparation, select the injection area and clean it with an alcohol wipe, allowing it to air dry completely. Rotate injection sites to prevent skin changes and discomfort.
Administering the Injection
Administering an injection depends on whether it is subcutaneous (SC) or intramuscular (IM), as each targets a different tissue layer. Subcutaneous injections deliver medication into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, allowing for slower absorption. Common sites include the abdomen (at least 1.5 to 2 inches from the navel), the outer side of the upper thighs, and the back or side of the upper arms.
For SC injections, pinch the skin to create a fold. Insert the needle at a 45 or 90-degree angle, depending on fatty tissue. Push the medication slowly, then release the skin as the needle is withdrawn at the same angle.
Intramuscular injections deliver medication deeper into the muscle tissue, where a richer blood supply allows for faster absorption. Common sites include the deltoid muscle in the upper arm, the vastus lateralis in the thigh, and the ventrogluteal muscle in the hip. The deltoid is often used for vaccines, while the vastus lateralis is a common site for self-administration, particularly in the middle outer part of the thigh.
For IM injections, stretch the skin taut. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle with a quick, firm motion to ensure it reaches the muscle. Inject the medication slowly, and remove the needle at the same angle.
Post-Injection Care and Safety
Apply gentle pressure to the site with a clean cotton ball or gauze to stop bleeding. Do not rub the injection site, especially after a subcutaneous injection, as this can increase bruising or affect medication absorption. After an intramuscular injection, massaging the area is not recommended, as it can push medication into the subcutaneous tissue.
Dispose of used needles and syringes safely to prevent accidental needlesticks and infection spread. Place all used sharps, including needles, syringes, and lancets, into a puncture-resistant sharps container. These can be FDA-cleared products or heavy-duty plastic containers (e.g., laundry detergent bottles with screw-on caps), clearly labeled “SHARPS – DO NOT RECYCLE.”
Never fill sharps containers more than three-quarters full. Once full, securely tape the lid shut before disposal according to local guidelines, which may include special collection sites or mail-back programs.
Monitor the injection site for adverse reactions. Minor soreness, redness, or bruising are common and usually resolve within a few days. Signs of infection (increased pain, swelling, warmth, red streaks, or pus draining) warrant immediate medical attention.
Store remaining medication to maintain effectiveness. Most injectable medications should be stored at room temperature (59°F-77°F / 15°C-25°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Some medications, like insulin, require refrigeration (36°F-46°F / 2°C-8°C) but should never be frozen. Allow medications to reach room temperature before injection to reduce discomfort.
Never reuse needles. If you have doubts about administering an injection, seek professional medical advice and training.