Figure 2-9. Vastus lateralis area, outer aspect of upper leg.
c. Prepare the Injection Site. Clean the site with an antiseptic pad using a
circular motion from the center point outward about two inches.
d. Remove Needle Guard. The needle cover should be pulled straight off. Any
twisting motion or a sideward motion may bend the needle. Do not touch the needle.
Lay the needle cover on a clean, flat surface.
e. Stabilize Injection Site. Pinch up tissue on the upper arm or upper thigh,
whichever you have chosen (see fig 2-7).
(1) Pinch the skin gently between the thumb and index finger to form a fold
of skin without touching the injection site.
(2) The fold of tissue helps determine the exact size of needle needed.
Measure from the fold's base to its crest and select a needle close to the length of the
fold.
f. Insert Needle.
(1) Hold the barrel of the syringe between the thumb and the index finger
with bevel up.
(2) Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle to the skin (see figure 2-7). All
subcutaneous injections are inserted at a 45-degree angle into the fatty tissue below the
skin.
MD0552
2-13