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The deltoid muscle, located in the upper arm, is the preferred site for intramuscular injections (IMI) due to its easy accessibility for drug and
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Injection site | Central and thickest portion of the deltoid muscle |
| Location | Upper arm |
| Distance from acromion process | 2-3 finger-breadths (approximately 2 inches) or 5 cm |
| Needle length | 1 inch (25mm) for weights under 70kg, 1-1.5 inches for 70-90kg, 1.5 inches for over 90kg |
| Needle gauge | 22-25 |
| Angle of injection | 90 degrees |
| Aspiration | Not necessary or recommended |
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What You'll Learn
Injection site: 2-3 finger-widths below the acromion process
To locate the deltoid muscle, the patient must fully expose their upper arm and shoulder and relax the arm at their side. The deltoid muscle is located just above the level of the armpit, in the central part of the upper arm.
The correct injection site is found by locating the acromion process, which is the bony bit that sticks out from your shoulder, just above the deltoid muscle. The acromion process is the base of a triangle that points towards the elbow. The deltoid injection site is approximately 2-3 finger-widths (around 2 inches) below the acromion process, in the centre of the triangle.
To administer the injection, use your thumb and index finger to stretch the skin around the injection site. Insert the needle with a deep thrust at a 90-degree angle to the skin. Push down on the plunger of the syringe slowly, then withdraw the needle once all the contents have been administered.
It is important to wash your hands with soap and warm water before administering an injection to prevent potential infection.
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Injection angle: 90-degree angle to the skin
To perform an injection into the deltoid muscle, the correct injection site must first be located. The deltoid muscle is located in the upper arm. The injection site is the central and thickest portion of the deltoid muscle.
To locate the deltoid injection site, find the acromion process, which is the bony bit that sticks out from your shoulder, just above the deltoid muscle. The injection site is approximately 2-3 finger-breadths (around 2 inches) below the acromion process, sitting just above the level of the armpit.
Once the injection site has been located, the needle should be inserted at a 90-degree angle to the skin. This means inserting the needle straight up and down. It is important to use a needle that is long enough to reach the deep muscle. For vaccinations in adults, this is usually a 22-25 gauge needle that is 1 inch (25mm) long for those weighing less than 70kg (154lbs). For individuals weighing 70-90kg (154-198lbs), a needle length of 1 to 1.5 inches (25-38mm) is appropriate. For those weighing more than 90kg (198lbs), a 1.5-inch (38mm) needle should be used.
Before administering the injection, use your thumb and index finger to stretch the skin around the injection site. Insert the needle with a deep thrust and push down on the plunger of the syringe slowly. Once all the contents have been administered, withdraw the needle. If there is any bleeding, apply a plaster or wound pad to the area.
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Injection technique: Z-track method
The Z-track method is a commonly used technique for intramuscular injections. It is used to ensure that medication is delivered and remains in the muscle rather than leaking into the surrounding subcutaneous tissue. This method is particularly useful when medication must be absorbed by the muscle to be effective, and it helps to prevent issues like skin irritation and discolouration.
The Z-track method is considered safe and can be learned by patients and their families for at-home treatment. However, it is not always recommended and is usually reserved for medications known to cause issues if they leak into the subcutaneous tissue. It is also more complicated and time-consuming than standard intramuscular injections, requiring specific training and longer needles.
When performing the Z-track method, the skin and subcutaneous tissue are pulled and displaced to the side of the injection site before inserting the needle. Once the needle is removed, the tissue is released, creating a "Z" shaped track in the tissue. This process helps to seal the medication in the muscle and prevent leakage.
To perform an injection into the deltoid muscle, the injection site must first be located. The deltoid muscle is located in the upper arm, and the injection site is approximately 2-3 finger breadths (2 inches) below the acromion process, which is the bony part of the shoulder just above the muscle. It is important to avoid injecting too high or too low. Once the site is located, use your thumb and index finger to stretch the skin, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle with a deep thrust, and slowly push down on the plunger of the syringe. Finally, withdraw the needle once the contents have been administered, and apply a plaster if there is any bleeding.
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Needle length: 22-25 gauge for adults under 70kg
When administering a deltoid injection, it is important to locate the correct injection site. The deltoid muscle is located in the upper arm, and the injection site is the central and thickest portion of the muscle. To find the site, you can use the acromion process, which is the bony part of the shoulder that sticks out just above the deltoid muscle. The injection site is approximately 2-3 finger breadths (about 2 inches) below this process and sits just above the level of the armpit.
Once the injection site has been located, it is important to select the appropriate needle length and gauge. For adults weighing less than 70kg (154lbs), a needle gauge of 22-25 is recommended. This needle will typically be 1 inch (25mm) long. It is important to use a needle that is long enough to reach the deep muscle. The needle gauge refers to the thickness of the needle, with a higher number indicating a thinner needle. For example, a 26-gauge needle has an outer diameter of 0.46 mm, while a 22-gauge needle will have a larger diameter.
When administering the injection, it is important to follow the correct technique. Use your thumb and index finger to stretch the skin around the injection site. Insert the needle with a deep thrust at a 90-degree angle to the skin. Push down on the syringe plunger slowly, then withdraw the needle once the contents have been administered. If there is any bleeding, apply a plaster or wound pad to the area.
It is important to note that deltoid injections should not be given too high (near the acromion process) or too low, as this may miss the muscle and cause injury. The deltoid injection site is commonly used for vaccinations, and proper technique is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the procedure.
By following these guidelines for needle length, injection site location, and administration technique, you can safely and effectively administer a deltoid injection using a 22-25 gauge needle for adults weighing less than 70kg.
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Post-injection: Apply plaster if there's bleeding
A deltoid IM injection is given into a specific area of the deltoid muscle located in the upper arm. This injection route is commonly used for many vaccinations.
To locate the deltoid injection site, find the acromion process, the bony bit that sticks out from your shoulder, just above the deltoid muscle. The injection site is approximately 2-3 finger-widths (approximately 2 inches) below the acromion process, sitting just above the level of the armpit, in the central part of the upper arm.
Once the injection is administered, it is important to apply a plaster or wound pad to the area if there is any bleeding. This is a standard procedure to manage injection site reactions, which can include pain, swelling, rash, bleeding, or redness.
To stop the bleeding, apply pressure to the injection site using a piece of gauze. Massage the area gently to facilitate blood clotting and medication absorption into the muscle. Once the bleeding has stopped, cover the site with an adhesive bandage or compress.
It is normal to experience some discomfort after an intramuscular injection. However, if you observe any unusual symptoms or signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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Frequently asked questions
A deltoid IM injection is an injection given into a specific area of the deltoid muscle located in the upper arm. Many vaccinations are given by this route.
The deltoid injection site is approximately 2-3 finger-breadths (approximately 2 inches) below the acromion process, sitting just above the level of the armpit, in the central part of the upper arm.
To avoid causing injury, do not inject too high (near the acromion process) or too low (which may miss the muscle). Use a needle long enough to reach the deep muscle. Insert the needle with a deep thrust at a 90-degree angle to the skin.
