Chapter 47: Administering Medication: Routes and Injections

What angle is commonly used for intradermal injection?

5-15 degrees.

What angle is commonly used for subcutaneous injection?

45 or 90 degrees depending on needle length, tissue, and policy.

What angle is commonly used for intramuscular injection?

90 degrees.

What is the intradermal route used for?

TB skin test and some allergy testing.

What site is used for TB skin test?

Volar/inner forearm.

What are common subcutaneous sites?

Abdomen, outer upper arm, anterior thigh.

What are common IM sites?

Deltoid, vastus lateralis, ventrogluteal per policy/training.

What is the correct order for injection administration?

Verify order/rights -> hand hygiene -> prepare medication -> identify patient/allergies -> select site -> cleanse -> inject correct angle -> activate safety -> dispose sharps -> document.

What should never be done with used needles?

Do not recap by hand; discard immediately in sharps container unless device/policy requires special technique.

What is Z-track technique used for?

Some IM medications that can irritate/stain tissue; use only when trained/ordered.

What is oral route?

Medication swallowed by mouth.

What is sublingual route?

Medication placed under tongue.

What is buccal route?

Medication placed between cheek and gum.

What should the MA do after a vaccine?

Observe as directed, document VIS, lot, manufacturer, site, route, date/time.