Techniques and Injection Sites

Where are subcutaneos injections administered?

• Beneath the skin and into the adipose (fat) tissue

• Most commonly in the upper, outer arm; abdominal region; upper thigh

• Less commonly in the scapula (upper back); lower back/upper buttocks

How are subcutaneous injections administered?

• Pinch at least 1 inch of skin in order to inject below it

• The injection is 45-degrees from the surface of the skin to penetrate the layers of the skin but not deep enough to enter any muscle tissue

Where are intradermal injections administered?

• Between the upper layers of the skin, between the epidermis and dermis

• Commonly in the mid forearm, measure using one hand width above the wrist and one hand width from the elbow or antecubital space

• Rarely in the upper chest and scapula

How are intradermal injections administered?

• A very small amount may be injected, often 0.1mL or less

• The angle of the needle is almost parallel to the skin

  • 5-15-degree angle

Where are intramuscular injections administered?

• Administered into muscle

• Commonly in the deltoid (shoulder); ventrogluteal (outer hip - recommended for children younger 3 years old); vastus (upper, outer thigh) muscles

How are intramuscular injections administered?

• At 90-degree angle