How to Safely Administer Subcutaneous (SQ) Injections at Home with Kristy McKay
Subcutaneous (SQ) injections are a common way to administer medications, peptides, or hormones, and they are designed to be delivered just under the skin. At Florida Coast Wellness, we provide patients with the knowledge and guidance to safely perform SQ injections at home under medical supervision. Kristy McKay, our experienced nurse practitioner, walks you through the process so you can feel confident and safe.
What is a Subcutaneous (SQ) Injection?
A subcutaneous injection delivers medication into the fatty tissue beneath the skin. This method is often used for:
- Hormone therapies (like peptides or sermorelin)
- Vitamin injections (B12, glutathione)
- Weight loss or wellness medications
SQ injections are typically administered in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. They are generally less painful than intramuscular injections because the needle is smaller and goes into fatty tissue instead of muscle.
Step-by-Step Guide: SQ Injection with Kristy McKay
Kristy emphasizes that safety and cleanliness are key. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended steps:
1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Before touching any supplies or your injection site, wash your hands with soap and warm water to prevent infection.
2. Prepare Your Supplies
You will need:
- Medication vial or prefilled syringe
- Alcohol swabs
- Needle and syringe
- Sharps container
Kristy advises checking the expiration date and ensuring the solution is clear and free of particles.
3. Clean the Injection Site
Use an alcohol swab to clean the area where you plan to inject. This reduces the risk of infection.
4. Draw Medication (if using a vial)
- Attach the needle to the syringe.
- Draw air into the syringe equal to the medication volume.
- Insert the needle into the vial and push air in, then draw the prescribed dose.
- Remove air bubbles by gently tapping the syringe.
5. Pinch the Skin
Gently pinch a fold of skin at the injection site. This helps ensure the medication goes into the subcutaneous tissue rather than the muscle.
6. Insert the Needle
- Hold the syringe like a pencil.
- Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle depending on the amount of fatty tissue.
- Kristy emphasizes going slowly and steadily to minimize discomfort.
7. Inject the Medication
- Push the plunger slowly to deliver the medication.
- Once all the medication is injected, leave the needle in for 2–3 seconds to prevent backflow.
8. Withdraw the Needle
- Remove the needle gently.
- Release the pinched skin.
- Apply gentle pressure with a clean cotton ball or swab if there’s minor bleeding.
9. Dispose of the Needle Safely
Always place needles in a sharps container immediately. Never reuse needles or dispose of them in regular trash.
Tips for Safe and Comfortable Injections
Rotating injection sites to prevent tissue irritation.
- Using a new needle for each injection.
- Storing medication according to manufacturer instructions.
- Consulting your healthcare provider if you notice redness, swelling, or unusual pain at the site.
Why Choose Florida Coast Wellness for SQ Injections
At Florida Coast Wellness, we combine medical expertise with patient education. Kristy McKay and our team provide hands-on guidance, telehealth check-ins, and safety instructions so you can administer injections confidently at home.
Whether you are starting peptide therapy, hormone replacement, or vitamin injections, our goal is to ensure safety, comfort, and optimal results.
Schedule a Consultation
Learn more about SQ injections and other wellness treatments at Florida Coast Wellness. Book a consultation online or call us at 352-247-8000 to get started with a personalized treatment plan. Email us at [email protected]
