Intramuscular Injection Sites

 Intramuscular Injection Sites and Their Landmarks

1.      Ventrogluteal site: Is the most comfortable and safest for IM injections. This site is not close to any major blood vessels or nerves. The landmarks for this site include the greater trochanter, anterior superior iliac spine and iliac crest. With the patient on their side place the palm of your hand on the greater trochanter, the index finger on the anterior superior iliac spine and the middle finger pointing toward the iliac crest. View diagram below:

                               

2.      Deltoid site: This site is most common for small volumes. To inject into this site you must first locate the acromion process, place a finger on the process and measure 3 fingerbreadths down. The injection is given into the fullest part of the deltoid. View diagram below:

              

    

3.       Vastus Lateralis: Is located on the lateral aspect of the thigh, it is the number one site for newborns and infants who have not developed any of the gluteal muscles or the deltoid muscle. Have patient assume a supine position, divide the thigh into thirds. Place one hand next to the head of the trochanter and the other hand just above the patella. The area between your hands is the middle third; this is where the injection is given into the fullest portion of the muscle. View diagram below:

       

4.      Dorsogluteal site: This site is never used in infants and small children. Because of the proximity to the sciatic nerve it is only used as a last resort in adults. The landmarks for this site are the posterior superior iliac spine and the greater trochanter. An imaginary line is drawn between the two landmarks. Find the center of the line and move one inch above the line. View the diagram below:

            

Hope this helps!