Subcutaneous Injection Guide
General information about equipment and sterile subcutaneous technique.
💉 Subcutaneous (SubQ) Injection Guide
This guide provides general information on administering a subcutaneous (SubQ) injection using sterile technique.
Equipment
U-100 insulin syringe
Alcohol swabs (70% isopropyl alcohol)
Sterile gauze or cotton (optional)
Sharps container
Common Syringe Sizes
Common Needle Gauges: 29G, 30G, 31G, 32G
Common Needle Lengths: 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm
Note: On a U-100 insulin syringe, 100 Units = 1 mL
📍 Recommended Injection Sites
✅ Abdomen (at least 5 cm / 2 inches from the navel)
✅ Front or outer thigh
✅ Back of the upper arm (with assistance)
Rotate injection sites regularly.
🧼 Before Injecting
✔ Wash your hands.
✔ Check the vial and solution.
✔ Use a new sterile syringe and needle.
✔ Clean the vial stopper and injection site with an alcohol swab.
✔ Allow the alcohol to air dry before injecting.
💉 Injection Steps
- Prepare the syringe.
- Pinch a fold of skin.
- Insert the needle smoothly into the subcutaneous tissue.
- Inject the solution slowly and steadily.
- Withdraw the needle.
- Apply gentle pressure if needed (do not rub).
⚠️ Avoid Injecting Into
❌ Bruised skin
❌ Scar tissue
❌ Inflamed or infected skin
❌ Painful or swollen areas
🗑️ After Injection
✔ Dispose of the syringe immediately in a sharps container.
✔ Do not reuse needles or syringes.
✔ Rotate injection sites for future injections.
💡 Best Practices
✅ Use a new sterile syringe every time.
✅ Allow alcohol to dry before injecting.
✅ Rotate injection sites.
✅ Store products according to the recommended storage guide.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended for general educational purposes only and does not replace the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the product manufacturer. Always follow applicable medical guidance and use sterile technique.