IM injections

Specialties Emergency

Published

Hi,

We are having a discussion at work about the maximum amount of cc that can be given in each muscle. I was always taught the following:

Adults

Gluteus- 5cc

Thigh- 3cc

Deltoid-up to 2cc depending on Pt's size, I prefer 1cc limit

Pediatrics

Thigh- 1cc

I would appreciate hearing from others.

Kelly Townsend RN

Kayenta, AZ

Specializes in MS Home Health.

Yep I agree 5cc would not feel good. 2 max is what I would go, maybe 2.5 in a split.

renerian :chair:

Specializes in Emergency.

I just graduated in June, was taught Im is 3cc max on an adult. Of course the only thing I give in deltoid is tetnus, but yeah 3cc is what i was taught.

your best bet would be to check with your facility policy and see what they have written

xo Jenni

Specializes in Emergency Room.

had to give 2.4 mil units bicillin tonoc on a pharyngitis pt. one in each hip. He said the left one hurt more than the right. I told him I must've done a half-a**ed job. He laughed. :rotfl:

Specializes in ER, ICU, L&D, OR.

I really miss the old days when we gave bicillin 4.8 million units. I loved the look of terror in theor eyes when they saw those needles.

Per Ehren Myers RNotes, Up to 3 mL; small muscles (deltoid) no more than 1 mL.

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