When using needles and syringes, even small mistakes can lead to infections, inaccurate dosages, or unnecessary pain. Whether you're a healthcare professional or self-administering medication, avoiding these common errors ensures a safer experience.

1. Using a Dull or Bent Needle

A fresh needle should always be used for every injection. Reusing a needle can lead to:
✔️ Increased pain during injection
✔️ Higher risk of infection
✔️ Damage to skin and muscle tissue

💡 How to Avoid It:

• Always use a new, sterile needle for every injection.
• Dispose of used needles in an FDA-cleared sharps container (Learn more).

2. Injecting Too Fast

Injecting medication too quickly can cause pain, bruising, and improper absorption.

💡 How to Avoid It:

• Inject medication slowly and steadily.
• Follow the recommended administration time for your specific medication.

3. Drawing Medication Incorrectly

Air bubbles in the syringe can lead to inaccurate dosing and discomfort when injected.

💡 How to Avoid It:

• Hold the syringe upright and tap it gently to move air bubbles to the top.
• Push the plunger slightly to remove excess air before injecting.
• Follow proper syringe filling techniques (More info).

4. Not Rotating Injection Sites

Repeatedly injecting in the same spot can cause:
❌ Tissue damage
❌ Skin hardening or irritation
❌ Poor medication absorption

💡 How to Avoid It:

• Rotate injection sites as recommended (e.g., arms, thighs, abdomen).
• Keep a log of previous injection sites to avoid overuse.

5. Improper Needle Disposal

Throwing used needles in the trash or flushing them down the toilet can be dangerous.

💡 How to Avoid It:

• Use a sharps disposal container and follow local regulations (Find a disposal site).

Stay Safe & Inject the Right Way!

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure safer and more effective injections. Always follow best practices and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

For more information, visit:
🔗 FDA Guidelines on Safe Injection Practices: www.fda.gov
🔗 EPA Medical Waste Disposal Regulations: www.epa.gov
🔗 Sharps Disposal Programs: safeneedledisposal.org