Clinical Practice - IM injections: How’s your technique?
Good injection technique can mean the difference between less pain and injury. Angela Cocoman and John Murray explain
The administration of intramuscular injections is a common nursing intervention in clinical practice.1 This article aims to, raise awareness in relation to the injection sites used for intramuscular injection and, to highlight best practice in relation to IM injection administration.
The importance of good injection technique cannot be understated. It should not be forgotten that among potential complications of IM injection are abscess, cellulites, tissue necrosis, granuloma, muscle fibrosis, contractures, haematoma and injury to blood vessels, bones and peripheral nerves.2 Although IM injection is a commonplace nursing practice, there is a dearth of guidelines for nursing staff in this area.3,4 It has been outlined that there are no working policies or procedures on administering injections to which nursing staff can refer.3 Furthermore, the technique and preparation by certain staff may not be substantiated by evidence.4
Sites of the thigh (Rectus femoris and Vastus lateralis)
The uptake of drugs from the thigh region is slower than from the arm but faster than from the buttock, thus facilitating better drug serum concentrations than is possible with the gluteal muscles.5