IM injections

Question 1

What are the indications for IM injections?

Answer 1

If peripheral access cannot be obtained

If oral route is not tolerated or inappropriate (NBM or drug composition altered by the gastro route)

Question 2

What are the contraindications for IM injections?

Answer 2

Allergy
Patient refusal
Thrombocytopenia
Anticoagulation (warfarin or apixiban)

Question 3

Where do you do IM injections in the hip?

Answer 3

In the venerogluteal region
This is found by placing the palm on the greater trochanter and index finger on asis
Then inject between index and middle finger

Question 4

What are the advs and disadvs of the deltoid for IM injections?

Answer 4

Advs, most rapidly absorbed for IM sites, easily accessible

Disadvs, small area, volume range 0.5-2mls

Question 5

How do you locate the IM site in the deltoid?

Answer 5

4-5cm below the lateral edge of the acromium

Question 6

What are the advs of the quadriceps IM injection site?

Answer 6

Large muscle bulk in most people can tolerate repeat injections
Faster absorption than gluteal muscles

Question 7

How do you locate the quads IM injection site?

Answer 7

Between a hands breath down from the greater trochanter and a hands breath up from the knee, on the lateral aspect of thigh

Question 8

What equipment do you need for an IM injection?

Answer 8

2 sets of gloves and aprons, one for drawing up and one for giving
Drug - check date, dose, prescription and allergies
Blunt needle or Green needle for drawing up
Green needle for giving injection
Alcohol wipe
Sterile gauze, tape

Question 9

What is the procedure for giving an IM injection?

Answer 9

Wash hands
Put on gloves
Clean the site
Ask patient to relax muscle
Use z technique (displace skin laterally)
Insert needle at 90 degrees where finger was initially
Withdraw to look for blood then inject drug
Release skin then withdraw needle
Use gauze to cover and dispose of needle