IM Injection Sites
There are four main intramuscular injection sites on the body. They’re considered safe and effective sites to administer an IM injection. These four areas include:
✓ Thigh: Vastus Lateralis Muscle – Although the absorption rate of the medication is typically slower than when taking an IM shot in the upper arm, it’s the best location for an IM shot if you have to administer it by yourself.
✓ Hip: Ventrogluteal Muscle – This is a good place to receive IM injections since it’s less fatty than the buttocks which improves the absorption rate of the medication. It’s considered a very safe location when correct injection procedures are followed.
✓ Upper Arm: Deltoid Muscle – This is the most common site of injections for many vaccines. You’ll want to consider the volume of medication you’re inserting since this site can only hold a limited volume at a time. It’s recommended to not go over 1 mL in adults.
✓ Buttocks: Dorsogluteal Muscles – This is a site that is commonly used and widely accepted. Although this area is not too close to any major nerves or blood vessels, caution is advised since sciatic nerve damage is possible.