Clinical ProceduresQuestion 29 of 100
A medical assistant is giving an intramuscular injection in the deltoid. At what angle should the needle be inserted?
a.10 to 15 degrees, nearly parallel to the skin
b.45 degrees to the skin surface
c.90 degrees, perpendicular to the skin
d.30 degrees with the bevel down
Explanation
Intramuscular injections are given at a 90-degree angle so the needle passes through skin and subcutaneous tissue into the muscle. A 45-degree angle is used for many subcutaneous injections, and 10 to 15 degrees with the bevel up is the intradermal angle. Injecting IM medication too shallowly can cause irritation and poor absorption.
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