Administering an Intramuscular Injection – Glass Ampoule

An intramuscular injection is administered deep into either the deltoid, ventrogluteal or vastus lateralis muscle.

The site selected will depend on the:
– amount of fluid being injected
– location the previous injection was administered (rotate sites as much as possible)
– medication administration guidelines for a specific medication.

The intramuscular route can take larger volumes and more irritating solutions than the subcutaneous route. In addition, the rate of absorption is quicker due to the greater blood supply. Medications commonly administered intramuscularly include narcotics and antibiotics. A decision-making process should be used when administering all injections.
Injection techniques must be individualised to the patient, equipment and the medication being administered.
Aspiration during IM administration should be considered if administration of the same medication intravenously would require a different administration rate, dose or raise other concerns.

The use of gloves for this procedure will depend on the medication being administered and facility policy.
However, gloves are recommended if there is a potential for contact with bodily secretions.