What are Injections?
Injections are a method of delivering medication or other substances directly into the body through the use of a needle and syringe. They are commonly used in healthcare settings for various purposes such as administering vaccines, pain relief, and other therapeutic treatments.
Types of Injections
There are several types of injections, each serving different purposes and administered in different ways. The primary types include:
Preparation for Administering an Injection
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure safety and efficacy. Key steps include: Verify the
medication order and check for any allergies.
Gather necessary supplies: syringe, needle, medication, alcohol swabs, gloves, and a sharps disposal container.
Perform hand hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.
Prepare the medication by drawing the correct dose into the syringe.
Label the syringe if the medication will not be administered immediately.
Administering the Injection
The technique for administering an injection varies based on the type. General steps include: Identify the correct
injection site based on the type of injection.
Clean the site with an alcohol swab in a circular motion.
Stretch or pinch the skin depending on the injection type.
Insert the needle at the appropriate angle:
IM: 90 degrees
SC: 45 degrees
ID: 10-15 degrees
Aspire (pull back the plunger slightly) to check for blood return, except for ID and SC injections.
Inject the medication slowly and steadily.
Withdraw the needle and apply gentle pressure with a sterile gauze pad.
Dispose of the needle and syringe in a sharps container.
Post-Injection Care
After administering an injection, it is important to monitor the patient for any adverse reactions. Steps include: Observe the patient for immediate reactions such as
allergic reactions or syncope.
Document the administration details in the patient's record, including the medication, dose, site, and time.
Provide patient education on potential side effects and care of the injection site.
Common Complications and How to Avoid Them
While injections are generally safe, complications can occur. Common issues include: Infection - Prevent by using aseptic technique and proper hand hygiene.
Bruising - Minimize by using the correct technique and applying pressure after the injection.
Pain - Reduce by inserting the needle quickly and smoothly, and using a smaller gauge needle.
Allergic reactions - Check for patient allergies before administration and monitor closely after the injection.
Conclusion
Administering injections is a fundamental skill in nursing that requires knowledge, precision, and care. By following proper techniques and protocols, nurses can ensure the safe and effective delivery of medications and other treatments through injections.
