#19

19) Discuss the various sites for insulin and heparin.
Among the many kinds of drugs administered subcutaneously (just below the skin) are vaccines, preoperative medications, narcotics, insulin, and heparin. Common sites for subcutaneous (SC or SQ) injections are the outer aspect of the thighs. These areas are conventient and normally have good blood circulation. Other areas that can be used are the abdomen, the scapular areas of the upper back, and the upper ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal areas. Only small doses (0.5 to 1.0 ml) of medication are usually injected via the subcutaneous route.
Insulin-The most important consideration is the depth of the subcutaneous tissue in the area to be injected. If the client has more than 1/2 inch of adipose tissue in the injection site, it would be safe to administer the injection at a 90-degree angle with the skin spread. If the client is thin or lean and lacks adipose tissue, the subcutaneous injection should be given with the skin pinched and at a 45- to 60-degree angle.
Heparin-the subcutaneous administration of heparin requires special precautions because of the drug's anticoagulant properties. Select a site on the abdomen away from the umbilicus and above the level of the iliac crests.