Quick Tips

Subcutaneous (SC) infusion is a simple and effective method for delivering medication just under the skin, offering flexibility and comfort for patients. These quick tips will help ensure proper technique, site selection, and overall infusion success.

Patient using the Accusert mechanical needle inserter to inert their OPTFlow while eliminating needle phobia to catalyze independence and live a healthier life.

Optimizing your insertion

90 degree needle insertion is one of the most important factors for a successful infusion. The Accusert needle inserter can help facilitate 90 degree insertion while reducing needle phobia.

Identify the best needle for you

Needle lengths vary, with shorter needles often used for areas like the arms and longer ones for places like the thighs or abdomen. Your nurse, pharmacist, or doctor can help recommend the best size based on where you’re infusing and your personal needs.

Image exploring the differences in subcuteaous needle length and importance of using an optimal needle length to ensure access to subcutaneous tissue to optimize drug delivery and mazimize drug absorbption.

Finding your ideal infusion site

Selecting an ideal site for infusion or injection, it’s important to choose areas of the body with sufficient fatty tissue to support proper absorption. Common locations include the front or outer thighs, the abdomen (avoiding a two-inch radius around the navel), the side of the upper hips, or the back of the upper arms. To minimize irritation and ensure consistent delivery, sites should be spaced at least two inches apart, or as otherwise directed by the drug’s prescribing information or monograph. Rotating sites with each administration can also help maintain healthy tissue and prevent complications.

Back of arms

Side of upper hips

Abdomen

Thighs

Patient taking advantage of the Soft-Site dressing which includes a dry window to facilitate easy application and removal without sticking to subcuteanou needle set.

Soft-site for easy removal

Make sure to take advantage of Soft-Site's patented adhesive-less window technology to easily remove needle sets from their infusion sites.

Patient taking advantage of safety mechanism to securely lock the wings and prevent unwanted needle pricks. Patient using the ergonomic grip on the OPTFlow needle set to securely hold needle during insertion and removal. Grip also provides seamless compatibility with Accusert.

Safety first

Leverage OPTFlow and Soft-Glide's safety mechanism to prevent needle pricks and keep your infusion as safe as possible!

Different gauges and what they mean

Finding the right needle for your subcutaneous infusion can make a big difference in how comfortable and easy your treatment feels. Needles come in different thicknesses, called gauges — common sizes include 24, 26, and 27 gauge. A higher number like 27 means a thinner needle, which can be more comfortable, while a lower number like 24 is slightly thicker and may help infusions go a little faster.

Quick tips