Intramuscular Injections

Review Definition of parenteral Equipment Aseptic technique Personal protective equipment 3 “checks” 6 “rights” Proper disposal of sharps

Intramuscular Given into the muscle layer beneath the dermis and subcu tissue Intermediate absorption rate 3 mL syringe 19 – 25g needle 1 to 3 inch needle length

Land marking for IM Deltoid Ventrogluteal Vastus lateralis or rectus femoris Dorsogluteal

Deltoid Small muscle with little subcu fat Absorbed quickly Smaller volume of medication (no more than 1 mL) Anatomical risk: radial nerve and brachial artery

Vastus Lateralis Absorption rapid Site of choice for infants and children 1 inch needle for children Lift muscle from bone and administer at right angle to the muscle

Ventrogluteal Lateral hip; free of major blood vessels, nerves and fat 90 degree angle Least painful

Dorsal Gluteal Site is close to sciatic nerve and superior gluteal artery so accurate landmarking is critical Not used on infants and toddlers

Z-Track Method IM injection where solution will irritate subcu tissue Allows medication into muscle with no tracking to subcu tissue 0.2 mL of air used as airlock to prevent leak into subcu tissue