Mock 10

Scenario: Teaching Subcutaneous Injection Technique

Background Information:

• You are a nurse or nursing educator in a medical ward.
• James, a first-year nursing student, is under your supervision and is keen to learn the correct technique for administering subcutaneous injections.

Educational Objectives:

• Demonstrate and explain the step-by-step process of giving a subcutaneous injection.
• Emphasize aseptic techniques, proper site selection, and patient safety.
• Ensure understanding of the indications, medication handling, and potential complications of subcutaneous injections.

Student Profile:

• James, an enthusiastic first-year nursing student, eager to learn and practice new skills.
• Has basic theoretical knowledge but limited practical experience in clinical procedures.

Task:

• Provide a hands-on demonstration of preparing and administering a subcutaneous injection.
• Supervise James as he practices the technique, providing feedback and correction as needed.

Teaching Points and Procedure Steps:

1. Preparation:

   • Review the purpose of subcutaneous injections and the types of medications commonly administered this way (e.g., insulin, heparin).
   • Discuss the necessary supplies: syringe, needle, medication vial or pre-filled pen, alcohol wipes, and gloves.

2. Technique Demonstration:

   • Demonstrate hand hygiene and aseptic technique throughout the procedure.
   • Show how to properly fill the syringe from a vial or use a pre-filled syringe, ensuring all air bubbles are removed.
   • Explain site selection: common sites for subcutaneous injections include the upper arms, thighs, abdomen, and lower back. Rotate sites to prevent tissue damage.

3. Injection Procedure:

   • Instruct on cleaning the injection site with an alcohol wipe and allowing it to air dry to prevent irritation.
   • Demonstrate the "pinch" technique: pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and forefinger, which helps ensure the injection goes into the subcutaneous tissue, not muscle.
   • Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the patient's body fat.
   • Discuss how to inject the medication slowly and steadily, then release the pinched skin and withdraw the needle.
   • Show how to safely dispose of the needle and syringe in a sharps container.

4. Post-Procedure Care:

   • Explain how to monitor the injection site for reactions such as redness, swelling, or infection.
   • Discuss patient education regarding the injection and site rotation.

5. Practice and Feedback:

   • Allow James to practice the injection technique under your supervision using a practice pad.
   • Provide feedback on his technique, especially his aseptic technique, needle handling, and the comfort level he provides to his "patient" (even if it's just a practice pad).

Clinchers:

• Reinforce the importance of patient comfort, safety, and communication during the procedure.
• Encourage questions and provide clarifications to ensure thorough understanding.

Important Points to Keep in Mind:

• Maintain a supportive and educational environment, encouraging James to learn through both observation and hands-on practice.
• Emphasize critical points like aseptic technique and correct injection sites to prevent complications.

Expected from the Educator:

• Display comprehensive knowledge of subcutaneous injection techniques and patient care.
• Demonstrate excellent teaching skills, providing clear explanations and constructive feedback.
• Foster a learning atmosphere that is encouraging and patient, allowing James to gain confidence in his skills.

This scenario not only helps James learn a vital nursing skill but also reinforces best practices in patient care and procedural execution, essential for a developing nursing professional.