What needle gauge is required for a subcutaneous injection?

• A. 25-gauge needle
• B. 26-gauge needle
• C. 27-gauge needle
• D. 28-gauge needle

Answer: (C)

Subcutaneous injections aim to deliver medication into the fatty tissue just under the skin with minimal pain and tissue trauma. A 27-gauge needle provides a good balance: its thin bore reduces insertion discomfort and tissue disruption, while still being strong enough to deliver a typical injectable solution smoothly. This gauge works well with the short needle lengths commonly used for subcutaneous injections, helping keep the medication in the subcutaneous layer rather than penetrating into muscle. Using a thicker needle, like a 25-gauge, can feel more painful and create more tissue disturbance, while a thinner needle, such as a 28-gauge, may be prone to bending or clogging with some viscous medications. So, the 27-gauge choice offers a practical compromise that suits most subcutaneous injections.