How to Give an Intramuscular (IM) Injection

Step-By-Step Guide

GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES

You will need: medication, syringe, appropriate needle, alcohol swab, and gauze or bandage.

WASH YOUR HANDS

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

PREPARE THE MEDICATION

Clean the vial stopper with an alcohol swab. Draw air into the syringe equal to your dose. Insert needle into vial and inject air. Turn vial upside down and draw medication to the correct dose.

CHOOSE THE INJECTION SITE

Select the appropriate site and position the person comfortably.

PREPARE THE MEDICATION

Use an alcohol swab to clean the injection site in a circular motion. Allow it to air dry.

STRETCH THE SKIN (IF NEEDED)

For smaller patients, stretch the skin taut between your thumb and fingers. (Not needed for deltoid injections.)

INSERT THE NEEDLE

Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle quickly into the muscle to the hub of the needle.

ASPIRATE (CHECK FOR BLOOD)

Pull back slightly on the plunger. If blood appears, withdraw the needle and start over at a new site.

INJECT THE MEDICATION

If no blood appears, slowly push the plunger down to inject the medication.

REMOVE THE NEEDLE

Remove the needle quickly at the same 90-degree angle.

APPLY PRESSURE

Apply gentle pressure with gauze
or a cotton ball. Do not rub the site.

DISPOSE OF SUPPLIES

Dispose of the needle and syringe in a sharps container. Wash your hands again.

Important: Follow proper hygiene and safety procedures.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable, seek training from a healthcare professional.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional training.