[tobelpn]

I know all the IM injection sites but which is safest site for adults?

Deltoid, Ventro gluteal, Vastus lateralis.

I also know of some nurses who use the dorso gluteal.

Pls advice. Wud also appreciate the reason for why a paticular site is best and safest.

Im still learning. Thank you.

[jesa]

all the information we have in our books points to the ventrogluteal site as the best site due to the fact that it is furthest from major nerves and blood vessels, problem is it's not always accessible. here's from my book:

• Ventrogluteal: The ventrogluteal muscle involves the gluteus medius and minimus. It is situated deep and away from major nerves and blood vessels and is a safe site for all clients. Research has shown that injuries such as fibrosis, nerve damage, abscess, tissue necrosis, muscle contraction, gangrene, and pain have been associated with all the common IM sites except the ventrogluteal site (Nicoll and Hesby, 2002). Therefore, the ventrogluteal site is the preferred injection site for infants, children, and adults (Hockenberry and Wilson, 2007; Nicoll and Hesby, 2002).

• Vastus lateralis: The vastus lateralis muscle is another injection site used in the adult client and is the preferred site for administration of biologicals (e.g., immunizations) to infants younger than 12 months of age (Nicoll and Hesby, 2002). Has small nerve endings resulting in discomfort after injection.

• Deltoid: Easily accessible muscle. Use this site only for small medication volumes (0.5 to 1 ml), and for administration of routine immunizations in toddlers, older children, and adults (Nicoll and Hesby, 2002). Give hepatitis B vaccine only in the deltoid (Beyea and Nicoll, 1995).
(Elkin, Martha Keene. Nursing Interventions & Clinical Skills, 4th Edition. Mosby, 042007. 17.7.3.2.1.1.0.0.0.1).

[carebearRN08]

I just wanted to add that the vastus lateralis is the only site that should be used for an infant or toddler that has not been walking for at least 6 months because the gluteals are not developed enough yet, and the deltoid is just too small at this age. I have never seen the dorsal gluteal used in anyone as of yet.