Heparin SC admin

Many SQ and IM meds burn. I think part of it has to do with the puncture/procedure itself...

cheers,

not understanding this, roy...
unless the needle is blunted and has to be changed.
otherwise, drug reference books will clearly state if irritation/phlebitis/dermatitis/burning etc are expected at injection site.
even if one is completely inept, it still wouldn't cause disproportionate sensation.

leslie

drug reference books will clearly state if irritation/phlebitis/dermatitis/burning etc are expected at injection site.

Last time I was in the hospital the doctor ordered Heparin, prior hospitalizations I always received Lovenox. The Heparin burned like heck, the first thing I did was to rub it and that was a big mistake, it took the burning sensation to a whole new level. The other difference I noticed was the bruising was larger and much darker, almost black where I had received the Heparin. With Lovenox I get the bruising but nowhere to the extent in size and color as with Heparin.

I have some patients tell me it hurts when some nurses give it, so I wonder if there is something to their procedure as well sometimes... whether maybe they're doing the injection with alcohol still wet on the skin or injecting the volume *really* fast or what - I dunno.

Heparin burning is a common side effect.


Reference books mean phlebitis, etc. That occurs in venous administration.

Using ice on the injection site for 5 minutes can help.