Self-Administering Subcutaneous Injections:

A Step-by-Step Guide

Self-administering subcutaneous injections can be a safe and effective way to manage your health when done correctly. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure proper technique, minimize discomfort, and reduce the risk of complications.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before beginning, make sure you have all necessary supplies within reach:

  • Prescribed medication in a pre-filled syringe or vial with syringe

  • Alcohol swabs

  • Sharps container for disposal

  • Gauze or cotton ball (optional)

  • Bandage (optional)

  • Soap and water or hand sanitizer

2. Wash Your Hands

Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent infection. If soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

3. Choose and Clean the Injection Site

Select an area where you can pinch a 1 to 2-inch fold of skin. The best options include:

  • Abdomen – Avoid a 2-inch radius around the belly button.

  • Top of the thighs – Preferably the front or outer thigh.

  • Upper buttocks – The upper, outer section of the buttocks.

Once you've chosen your site:

  • Clean the area with an alcohol swab and let it air dry.

  • Rotating injection sites is recommended to avoid tissue damage and irritation.

4. Prepare the Syringe

  • If using a pre-filled syringe, remove the cap and ensure there are no air bubbles.

  • If drawing medication from a vial:

    • Clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.

    • Use a sterile syringe and needle to withdraw the prescribed dose.

    • Tap the syringe gently to remove air bubbles, then push the plunger slightly to expel any excess air.

5. Administer the Injection

  • Hold the syringe like a pencil or dart in your dominant hand.

  • With your non-dominant hand, pinch the cleaned skin to create a firm injection site.

  • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the pinched skin in a swift, controlled motion.

  • Slowly push the plunger with your non-dominant hand until the medication is fully injected.

  • Remove the needle at the same angle it was inserted.

6. After the Injection

  • Dispose of the used syringe and needle immediately in a designated sharps container.

  • Apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a gauze or cotton ball if needed.

  • Apply a bandage if there is minor bleeding.

  • Wash your hands again with soap and water.

7. Proper Disposal of Sharps

  • Never reuse needles or syringes.

  • Always dispose of sharps in a puncture-resistant, FDA-approved sharps container.

  • Do not throw used needles or syringes in the trash or recycling bins.

  • If you do not have a sharps container, use a heavy-duty plastic container with a secure lid.

  • Check local disposal regulations or return options at your pharmacy.

8. Important Tips

  • Inject at the same time each day if on a routine schedule.

  • Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation or scar tissue formation.

  • If you experience redness, swelling, pain, or unusual symptoms at the injection site, contact Kona Integrative Health for guidance.

  • If you are unsure about your technique, we are here to help! Schedule a session with our team for a demonstration or guidance.

For any questions or concerns, our team is here to support you. Your safety and optimal health are our priority.