What is IM and SubQ?
There are two types of self-injections: intramuscular (IM) injections and subcutaneous (SubQ) injections. An intramuscular injection is a way of injecting medication deep into the muscle tissue. This allows the medication to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
What if an IM shot is given subcutaneously?
Subcutaneous injections can lead to localised cellulitis, granuloma formation and abscess. The COVID-19 vaccine has shown to have high efficacy if given correctly intramuscularly. Subcutaneous injection can happen inadvertently (figure 1), affecting efficacy of vaccination and potentiate local adverse events.
Where is SubQ injection given?
The best areas on your body to give yourself a SQ injection are:
- Upper arms. At least 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) below your shoulder and 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) above your elbow, on the side or back.
- Outer side of upper thighs.
- Belly area.
Do you pinch IM injection?
Needle insertion Insert needle at an 45o angle to the skin. Pinch up on SQ tissue to prevent injecting into muscle. Aspiration before injection is not required. Multiple injections given in the same extremity should be separated as far as possible (preferably at least 1” apart).
Is SUBQ faster than IM?
Intramuscular injections are absorbed faster than subcutaneous injections. This is because muscle tissue has a greater blood supply than the tissue just under your skin.
Is IMQ faster than IM?
In medicine, it is one of several methods for parenteral administration of medications. Intramuscular injection may be preferred because muscles have larger and more numerous blood vessels than subcutaneous tissue, leading to faster absorption than subcutaneous or intradermal injections.
Is flu vaccine IM or SQ?
Typically, the regular seasonal flu shot is given intramuscularly (IM), meaning it’s injected into the muscle. However, a subcutaneous (SQ) version of the shot has become available for the 2011 to 2012 flu season. It’s given with a smaller needle and is injected into the skin.
Where is the Covid vaccine injected?
Administering Vaccine The injection site is approximately 2 inches below the acromion process and above the axillary fold/armpit.
Is insulin subcutaneous?
Because insulin is broken down by digestive enzymes, it cannot be taken in pill form. Instead, it is delivered with a syringe into the layer of fat below the skin, also called the “subcutaneous” tissue. The layer of fat on the stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks and backs of the arms are common sites for injecting insulin.
Should all IM injections be given Z-track?
YOU SHOULD USE the Z-track method for all I.M. injections in adults. By leaving a zigzag path that seals the needle track, this technique prevents drug leakage into the subcutaneous tissue, helps seal the drug in the muscle, and minimizes skin irritation.