1. UNION HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT FEBRUARY 2013 The ABC’s of IM Injections

2. How much can I give in 1 site? Adults and older children 2 ml MAX

3. How much can I give in 1 site? Smaller children and older infants 1 ml MAX

4. How much can I give in 1 site? Smaller infants 0.5 ml MAX

5. Where should I give the injection? The preferred site is the Ventrogluteal

6. Where should I give the injection? Followed by the Vastus Lateralis

7. Why can I not use the deltoid? The deltoid has many nerves and vessels and should ONLY be used for tetanus administration.

8. What is the Z Track Method? Utilized to promote better absorption of IM Injections

9. Procedure 1. put a new needle on the syringe after you have prepped the medication 2. Select the site you wish to inject 3. Prep the site with antiseptic wipe 4. Pull the skin 2.5 to 3.5 cm laterally and hold it taught 5. Hold the skin while you inject and keep the needle there for 10 seconds 6. Withdraw the needle and release the skin

10. Rubbing? There is no need to rub the site to promote absorption…that is a myth! Once you release the skin the body will do the rest.

11. References Potter and Perry, 7 th edition, pages 751-753