Which Muscle is Preferred for IM Injection?
There isn't one single muscle universally preferred for intramuscular (IM) injections. The best site depends on factors like the patient's age and the volume of the injection. However, several muscles are commonly used and considered safe.
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Ventrogluteal: This site, located on the hip, is frequently recommended for adults and children who can walk, due to its large muscle mass and minimal risk of hitting nerves or blood vessels. Source: Anatomically safe sites for intramuscular injections: a cross-sectional ...
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Deltoid: The deltoid muscle in the upper arm is easily accessible and commonly used for vaccines in older children and adults. It's particularly preferred in some regions like Japan due to ease of access for both clinicians and patients. [Source: Based on these three conditions, deltoid, ventrogluteal, and thigh sites are considered to be safe and, thus, commonly used for IM injections. The deltoid site has been used in clinical settings and is preferred in Japan because it is easily accessible for clinicians and also for patients to expose.]
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Vastus Lateralis: This thigh muscle is the preferred site for infants and neonates because of its size and safety. Source: The anterolateral aspect of the thigh, or vastus lateralis muscle, is the preferred IM site for neonates …
Choosing the Right Site: Considerations
The choice of injection site is crucial and should consider the patient's age, the medication's volume, and the potential for adverse effects. Always follow established guidelines and best practices. Source: CDC guidelines on vaccine administration Source: CDC guidelines on vaccine administration route and site
