IM injection question!

[anilaa]

When doing an IM injection, why would a body builder require a 1 inch needle as opposed to 1.5 inch needle? Im confused because it says those with less muscle mass require shorter needles but don't body builders have alot of muscle mass?

[Wuzzie]

Although I've never heard of that stipulation i would imagine it's because body builders have so little SQ fat you'll hit muscle long before you would on someone of average build.

[OcMurse93]

Patients with more subcutaneous tissue require longer needles. Typically the elderly, (which I'm assuming your reference is referring to) have very little muscle mass and almost no subcutaneous tissue; therefore a shorter needle is indicated.