Final answer:
For subcutaneous injections, needle sizes commonly range from 25 to 30 gauge with lengths from 3/8 to 1 inch, suitable for different medication viscosities and patient body mass.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the appropriate needle size for a subcutaneous injection. For such injections, a common needle size is between 25 to 30 gauge, with a length of 3/8 to 1 inch. A smaller gauge number indicates a larger diameter needle, with typical lengths suitable for reaching the subcutaneous tissue without hitting muscle. It's essential to select the needle size based on the medication viscosity and the patient's body mass.