How to Inject
Tips for Self-Injecting
Whether you are familiar with self-administered injections, we require all patients to watch the ‘How To Inject’ video below for subcutaneous injecting prior to the scheduled telehealth appointment.
If you are new to giving injections, It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous around needles. Before you give yourself an injection, you will want to learn the right way to prepare your medication and how to give yourself the injection. Both videos walk you through the steps and we have created instructions that you can print to keep on hand. Just follow these links:
Subcutaneous (SQ) Injection Instructions
If you are still hesitant after watching the videos and reviewing the printed instructions, consider asking your healthcare provider, nurse, or pharmacist to show you what to do. If you find it easier for someone else to give you injections, ask a loved one for help.
When giving yourself an injection, it is a good idea to pay attention to your breathing. Take deep breaths while giving yourself the injection. Breathing will help you to stay calm and relaxed while you administer the medication. Try to be in a stress-free environment and at a time you will not be rushed or interrupted. You should also wear comfortable clothing to give you easy access to the injection site.
If you are worried about pain, one of the easiest ways to reduce pain, and your anxiety, is to numb the injection site with an ice cube. You can also use a topical anesthetic cream containing lidocaine.
To limit pain, bruising, and scarring, don’t give the injection in the same place every time – rotate injection sites regularly. Each time, you should be at least an inch or two away from the previous injection site.
Subcutaneous Injection Instructions
What is a Subcutaneous Injection?
A subcutaneous injection is a method of administering medication with a short needle into the fatty tissues under the skin. These injections are shallower than those injected into muscle tissues and are absorbed into the bloodstream slowly and steadily. Subcutaneous injections are usually safe and do not require as much force as intramuscular injections into the muscle tissues.
