? about giving shots

mona b RN, BSN, RN · Nov 6, 2004

I am giving shots this week in clinicals. any advice for the first time administering shots.
any tips, suggestions are appreciated!

Read up on the different types of shots, i.e. sq, IM or intradermal. Go over the different types of syringes and learn what you would use for certain things only, i.e. insulin.

Be confident and I am sure you will do fine. Don't forget the five rights, or is it six now?

Good Luck

jenrninmi, MSN, RN · Nov 7, 2004

Didn't you have a lab to practice injections? :uhoh21:

adnstudentnurse · Nov 7, 2004

Yes we did . i was just looking for something to calm my nerves down.

Ari RN, BSN, RN · Nov 7, 2004

Just remember that the shot isn't going to hurt you a bit! It's great being on the other side.:chuckle Careful you don't stick yourself. I agree with going over the medication administration rights and practicing in the lab! Good Luck!

NurseforPreggers · Nov 8, 2004

I was so nervous the first time I did flu shots that I nearly missed the person's arm completely because my hands were shaking so bad. My advice would be relax because you know what you are doing. The only thing you really need to remember is to aspirate. Other than that don't over analyze yourself.

NurseforPreggers · Nov 8, 2004

I should have said aspirate if it is an IM injection. Just go over your injection sites for different types of injections before hand, you will be fine.

Roy Fokker, BSN, RN · Nov 8, 2004

adnstudentnurse :: Believe me, it'll be over before you know it! Clinical s are waaaaaay too much fun! :) Take a deep breath. Relax. Just have a clear understanding of what you are doing. Remember, your professors won't let you do it if they didn't think you were competent enough!

Have faith in yourself. Go for it!

Be confident and I am sure you will do fine. Don't forget the five rights, or is it six now?
Good Luck

My Uni is trying to make sure that "Right Documentation" is also drilled into our heads. So, even though it is still 5 Rs, we are making it 6Rs "unofficialy" :)

AliceanRN2B · Nov 8, 2004

I can totally relate, and am still nervous about some injections, and causing harm/pain, especially IMs.

It sounds like you are going out into the "real world," to give Flu shots. I was a nervous wreck myself. Don't forget to ask if they are allergic to eggs, and which arm they prefer. Remember, giving it in the dominant arm is actually better, in my opinion, because using that arm helps work the soreness out faster.

I learned a valuable tip from a school nurse about giving flu shots...she kept saying don't forget to anchor your hand and pivot. It's easier to demonstrate than explain on the web, but basically hold your syringe as you would "normally," then anchor the posterior aspect of your hand--the pinky side--on the arm then basically pivot the needle into the skin, and proceed as usual. Try to keep them breathing, tensing up really makes a difference in the pain. I usually say okay, here we go, deep breath in, and out, sticking on the out. Of course, I don't just jump in there and surprise them. I explain that will substitute for "there's going to be a stick now," or whatever.

I hope this helped, not confused you further. Good luck. Step back and watch the techniques of others, ask your instructor to demonstrate her favorite technique. A little flattery will get you a lot of information.

Peace and happiness!!

presC. · Nov 8, 2004

good advice AliceanRN2B! and to you adnstudentnurse, just follow the tips and tricks and you'll do great!

franciscangypsy · Oct 17, 2007

I'm giving my first flu shots tomorrow. excited and slightly nervous! never given an IM yet to a person... only have given insulin!