Which is the appropriate action after inserting the needle for a subcutaneous injection?

After inserting the needle for a subcutaneous injection, the appropriate action is to depress the plunger. This step is crucial because it allows the medication to be delivered directly into the subcutaneous tissue, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream effectively. The correct technique ensures that the medication reaches the intended site of action.

When administering a subcutaneous injection, it is essential to retain the needle in place while the medication is delivered to avoid any leakage of the medication, which could lead to inadequate dosing and affect the overall efficacy of the treatment. Additionally, by depressing the plunger smoothly and steadily, you can help ensure that the medication is administered at the correct rate and depth, which is critical for achieving the desired therapeutic effect.

While the other options may seem plausible, they do not align with the standard procedure following needle insertion. For instance, removing the needle immediately would negate the purpose of injecting the medication. Activating the safety device is typically a post-injection step to reduce the risk of needlestick injuries, and asking the patient a distracting question does not contribute to an efficient or safe administration process. Therefore, correctly depressing the plunger is the necessary action to ensure proper medication delivery.