Sub Q Injection Question

[mariedoreen]

Hi guys,

I'm confused about the difference between two of our check-offs this week:

One is "Demonstrate giving a subcutaneous injection using the following criteria... " and the other says "Demonstrate giving a subcutaneous heparin injection using the following criteria..."

I'm not seeing in my reading where it is discussed that the injection would be done differently because it's heparin. Am I missing something very important here? Can you help me out?

[Jennerizer, ASN, RN]

You don't ever aspirate with sub-q's. Heparin is given in the abdomen at least 2" away from the umbilicus & always at a 90 degree angle.

[RainDreamer, BSN, RN]

Like the others have said, with heparin you never aspirate, never massage and always give in the abdomen.

As far as aspirating with other sub-qs, you need to go with whatever the hospital policy is. Some want you to aspirate for all sub-qs, some don't want you to aspirate.

[mariedoreen]

Thanks so much you guys! I read all your responses yesterday and they were just what I needed to know. I finally found all the information you gave me this morning when I thought to print out the procedure sheet from my med admin CD. There are so many materials (papers, books, CDs) with the nursing program that I sometimes completely space that I have certain resources in my possession!

Thanks again, it is so wonderful to have a place to go for support and information, you're all awesome!