The RCN guideline on vaccine administration states: "Subcutaneous (SC) Injection (Where Appropriate) Best practice ensures that: _ The skin is bunched between the thumb and forefinger, in order to lift adipose tissue from underlying muscle, especially in thin patients _ The needle is inserted at a 45º angle (see Figure 4) it is generally agreed that aspiration is unnecessary for SC injections. _ The vaccine is injected slowly _ Gentle pressure is applied to the site with a cotton wool or gauze swab for a few seconds afterwards Note: The site should not be rubbed or massaged as this can cause trauma to the injection site.