Intramuscular injections

Definition

Intramuscular injections involve administering medication directly into a muscle, allowing for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. Common sites include the deltoid, vastus lateralis, and gluteal muscles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intramuscular injections are often used for vaccines, antibiotics, and hormonal treatments.
2. The needle used for intramuscular injections is typically longer than those used for subcutaneous injections to reach deep muscle tissue.
3. Common sites for intramuscular injections include the deltoid (upper arm), vastus lateralis (thigh), and ventrogluteal or dorsogluteal (buttock).
4. Aspirating before injecting helps ensure the needle hasn’t punctured a blood vessel.
5. Proper technique involves inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle to minimize discomfort and ensure proper delivery.

Review Questions

• What are the common sites for administering intramuscular injections?
• Why is it important to aspirate before injecting an intramuscular injection?
• Describe the angle at which an intramuscular injection should be administered.

Related terms

Subcutaneous Injection: Injection of medication into the tissue layer between the skin and muscle.

Intravenous Injection: Administration of medication directly into a vein.

Pharmacokinetics: The study of how drugs move through the body during absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.