NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to administer an influenza vaccine via subcutaneous injection. The MA should insert the needle at which of the following angles?
- A25-degree angle
- B45-degree angle
- C15-degree angle
- D90-degree angle
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 45-degree angle
Subcutaneous injections are administered into the fatty tissue layer just beneath the skin. A 45-degree angle is typically used for this route to ensure the medication reaches the subcutaneous layer without entering the muscle.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 25-degree angle is not a standard injection angle.
- C. 15-degree angle is used for intradermal injections.
- D. 90-degree angle is used for intramuscular injections.
Subcutaneous Injection Angle
Subcutaneous injections are administered into the fatty tissue layer beneath the dermis, requiring a 45-degree needle insertion angle for most patients to ensure proper delivery.
- Targets subcutaneous tissue.
- Standard angle is 45 degrees.
- Pinch skin to lift tissue.
Memory trick: ID 15, SQ 45, IM 90, IV 25.