A client is nervous about daily subcutaneous self-injection. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Encourage the client to practice the injection technique again under the supervision of the nurse.
• B. Consult with the HCP about a prescription for a different route of medication administration.
• C. Perform another demonstration of the injection procedure so the client can carefully observe the steps.
• D. Suggest that the client come to the provider's office to receive the injections for the duration of the treatment.

Answer: (A)

Building confidence and competence in self-administration through supervised, hands-on practice is the goal. When a client is anxious about daily subcutaneous injections, the most effective step is to have them perform the injection technique again under the nurse's direct supervision. This provides real-time coaching on the essential steps—correct needle angle for subcutaneous tissue, insertion depth, site rotation, and maintaining aseptic technique—and immediate feedback to correct any errors. This hands-on, guided practice helps reduce fear by turning the process into a familiar routine and supports safe self-care at home by ensuring the technique is performed correctly.

Watching another demonstration can reinforce steps, but active practice with supervision builds actual skill and confidence more effectively. Having injections done in the provider's office every time would be burdensome and unnecessary once the patient is competent, and does not promote self-management. If there are concerns about the route itself, those should be discussed with the healthcare provider, but the immediate, most helpful action for anxiety about technique is supervised practice.