Here’s a chart outlining the steps to perform a subcutaneous injection for weight loss. Please note that this chart is for informational purposes only and should not replace specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on how to perform injections and any specific instructions for your prescribed medication.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. |
| 2 | Gather Supplies: Gather the necessary supplies, including the prescribed medication, alcohol swabs, a sharps container, and a syringe or pen injector. Ensure the medication is at room temperature if required. |
| 3 | Choose Injection Site: Select an injection site on your abdomen, upper thighs, or upper arms. Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation. Avoid areas with scars, bruises, or skin conditions. |
| 4 | Clean Injection Site: Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen injection site. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding. |
| 5 | Prepare Medication: If using a syringe, draw the prescribed dose of medication into the syringe. If using a pen injector, load the pen with the medication and set the appropriate dose. |
| 6 | Remove Air Bubbles: If using a syringe, gently tap the syringe to move any air bubbles to the top and then push the plunger to expel the air. |
| 7 | Pinch Skin: Using your non-dominant hand, pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site. |
| 8 | Insert Needle: With the needle pointing at a 45 or 90-degree angle (depending on the medication and needle length), insert the needle quickly into the pinched skin. |
| 9 | Inject Medication: Push the plunger slowly to inject the medication into the subcutaneous tissue. |
| 10 | Remove Needle: Withdraw the needle gently and quickly from the skin at the same angle you inserted it. |
| 11 | Apply Pressure: Use a cotton ball or dry gauze to apply light pressure to the injection site for a few seconds to help reduce any bleeding. |
| 12 | Discard Needle: Safely dispose of the used needle in a sharps container. Do not recap the needle. |
| 13 | Record Injection: Keep a record of the date, time, and injection site to track your injections. |
| 14 | Wash Hands: Wash your hands again after completing the injection. |
Remember, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about performing injections for weight loss. They can provide personalized guidance and support throughout your weight loss journey.