Landmark IM Injection Sites

Study Notes

Deltoid

Locate the deltoid muscle by placing four fingers across it, with the first finger on the acromion process.
The triangle formed about 2 inches below the acromion process is the deltoid muscle injection site.
Only suitable for administering up to 1 mL of solution and recommended for the hepatitis B vaccine in adults.
Applying pressure to the site for ten seconds before the injection can reduce pain.

Vastus Lateralis

Identify the injection site by dividing the area between the greater trochanter of the femur and the lateral condyle into thirds, selecting the middle third.
The client can be positioned lying on their back or sitting for the injection.
This site is the preferred choice for intramuscular injections in infants aged 1 year and younger.

Ventrogluteal

Located in the gluteus medius muscle, this site is the preferred choice for intramuscular injections in children over 1 year and adults.
Position the heel of the hand on the greater trochanter, with fingers pointing towards the client's head.
Use the index finger to mark the anterior superior iliac spine and stretch the middle finger towards the buttocks.
The triangle formed by the index finger, middle finger, and crest of the ileum is the injection site.

Dorsogluteal

Identify this site by palpating the posterior superior iliac spine and drawing an imaginary line to the greater trochanter of the femur.
The injection site is lateral and parallel to the sciatic nerve, making it less suitable for young children.
Avoid using this site for children under 3 years unless they have been walking for at least a year.

Description

Explore the essential landmarks for intramuscular injection through this flashcard quiz. Focus on the deltoid muscle and learn the proper placement and volume for effective administration. Ideal for healthcare professionals and students in medical fields.