Question

When educating an average-sized adult patient on self-insulin injections, the medical assistant should explain that a subcutaneous injection is given at which of the following angles?

Answer 1

A subcutaneous insulin injection is typically given at a 45 to 90-degree angle, with the exact angle depending on the needle length and patient's body build. For an average-sized adult, a 90-degree angle is often used.

Step-by-step explanation:

When educating an average-sized adult patient on self-insulin injections, it is important to explain that a subcutaneous injection is typically given at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the length of the needle and the thickness of the skin. For patients with thinner layers of subcutaneous fat, a 45-degree angle may be appropriate to avoid injecting into muscle. However, for most adults with an average body build, a 90-degree angle, which is perpendicular to the skin surface, is often recommended. Insulin injections are crucial for controlling the level of glucose in the blood, which is especially important for patients with diabetes. Insulin is a hormone that enhances the uptake of glucose by cells, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Therefore, understanding the correct angle for insulin injections is vital for the effective management of diabetes.