Which assessment finding would indicate a need for the practical nurse (PN) to intervene during a subcutaneous injection?

Reusing the injection site for a subcutaneous injection indicates a need for the practical nurse to intervene due to the increased risk of complications. Frequent reuse of the same injection sites can lead to lipoatrophy (loss of fat tissue) or lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution), which can negatively impact the absorption of medications such as insulin. Proper injection technique and site rotation are crucial for ensuring effective medication delivery and minimizing adverse effects.

In contrast, while an uneasy appearance or expressing fear about needles may suggest emotional distress, these factors do not directly affect the clinical procedure. Pinching the skin to administer insulin is a standard technique that helps to gather subcutaneous tissue, which is appropriate when delivering the injection. Therefore, the emphasis on using proper sites and techniques highlights the importance of maintaining safe practice standards in medication administration.