SUBQ SL

What is the primary purpose of subcutaneous (SubQ) injections?

To deliver medication into the adipose (fatty) tissue layer just below the dermis for slow, sustained absorption.

What is the primary purpose of intramuscular (IM) injections?

To deliver medication deep into muscle tissue for faster absorption due to high vascularization.

What should you do when administering a SubQ injection?

Pinch the skin to pull fat away from the underlying muscle and do not aspirate.

Why is it important to rotate injection sites for SubQ injections?

To prevent lipodystrophy (fatty lumps) and ensure consistent absorption.

What is the preferred site for IM injections?

The ventrogluteal site, as it is away from major nerves and blood vessels.

What is the recommended angle of insertion for IM injections?

90 degrees.

What gauge needles are typically used for ventrogluteal IM injections?

25 to 27 gauge.

What is the Z-Track method used for?

To prevent medication from leaking back into subcutaneous tissue and reduce irritation.

What is the first step in the Z-Track technique?

Pull the skin and subcutaneous tissue 1-1.5 inches to the side with your non-dominant hand.

What should you do after injecting medication using the Z-Track technique?

Withdraw the needle and release the skin to seal the medication in the muscle.

What is the significance of the dorsogluteal site?

It is a traditional site for IM injections but is discouraged due to the risk of sciatic nerve injury.

How should the dorsogluteal site be landmarked for injection?

Divide the buttock into four quadrants and inject in the upper outer quadrant.

What is the loading dose of Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO4) typically used for?

To prevent and treat seizures in severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.

What is the recommended route for administering Magnesium Sulfate when IV access is difficult?

Intramuscular (IM) injection.

What are the key clinical signs to check before administering repeat doses of MgSO4?

Patellar reflex, respiratory rate (> 16 breaths per minute), and urinary output (> 30 mL/hr).

What is the antidote for Magnesium toxicity?

Calcium Gluconate.

What should be done to minimize pain when administering MgSO4 IM?

Add 1 mL of 2% Lidocaine into the same syringe.

What is the maximum volume that can be administered in a gluteal injection?

Up to 10 mL.

What is the proper patient position for gluteal injections?

Patient lying prone with toes pointed inward or side-lying with the upper knee flexed.

What should be done after administering an IM injection to help disperse the medication?

Massage the injection area firmly.

What is the significance of the 'V' technique in IM injections?

It helps to accurately locate the ventrogluteal site for injection.

What is the recommended needle length for IM injections?

1 to 1.5 inches, depending on patient size.

What is the fastest absorption site for IM injections?

The abdomen, at least 2 inches away from the umbilicus.

What should be done to ensure safety when administering injections?

Verify the 14 Rights and use safety needles, disposing of them immediately.

What is the common gauge for needles used for thick medications?

20 to 23 gauge.

What is the recommended technique for IM injections to prevent leakage?

The Z-Track method.

What should be done if the patient shows signs of magnesium toxicity?

Administer Calcium Gluconate slowly IV over 10 minutes.

What is the purpose of aspirating before injecting IM medications?

To ensure no blood return, avoiding accidental IV entry.

What is the typical administration rate for IM injections?

Inject slowly at a rate of 10 seconds per mL.