Injection??IM or SC

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My dad's girlfriend is now taking B-12 injections and she has some new insulin needles that my dad used for allergy shots. She wants me to give her B-12 shots with these needles (the dose is 1 ml) Is it ok to use these small needles? Thanks :rolleyes:

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I would check with the DR., but when I gave these in the Dr.'s office where I used to work it was SQ. Although I have known them to be IM.

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If I am correct B-12 injections need to be given IM. So you would need a 1" or 1.5" needle to inject. HMMMMMM

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Specializes in PCU, Critical Care, Observation.

B-12 shots are IM......I've been getting them monthly for the last 7 years (pernicious anemia)....don't forget to pull back on the syringe to make sure you aren't hitting a vein before injecting. I get mine in the deltoid.

I'm curious, how does she get access to the liquid B-12? I can't find anyone that will sell it to a consumer.

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Our policy is IM or deep subcu...

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I have always given B-12 IM but I did have a pt hwo was pregnant who gave her own SQ per her OB's orders. Maybe ther are certian conditions where you would give SQ???? Curious...

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Specializes in PCU, Critical Care, Observation.

I think if the person has pernicious anemia, it needs to be IM because the body can't absorb b12 any other way. Perhaps if it is just a supplement, it can be done sq. That's just a guess though.

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Would be IM. I would be more worried about my license if I were you. Remember that you are liable for any nursing procedure or

advice you give outside the work place. The good samaritan law

will not protect you. I know of a case where a RN was sued by

a "friend" for complications from the RN giving allergy shots as a

favor.

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IM is the correct method for B12.

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