When administering an intradermal injection, the nurse should follow the standard principles of safe injection practices to ensure patient safety and prevent complications. The following are the steps a nurse should take when administering an intradermal injection:
Review the patient's medical record to confirm the order for the injection, identify any allergies or contraindications, and verify the correct dosage and medication.
Cleanse the injection site with an antiseptic solution, usually alcohol or iodine, and allow it to dry completely.
Use a sterile, disposable, and calibrated syringe and needle appropriate for the volume of medication to be administered.
With the non-dominant hand, stretch the skin taut over the injection site.
With the dominant hand, hold the syringe at a 10 to 15-degree angle to the skin and insert the needle into the skin, bevel up.
Aspirate gently to ensure the needle is not in a blood vessel. If blood appears in the syringe, withdraw the needle and start the procedure again at a different site.
Slowly inject the medication, creating a wheal or a small bubble under the skin.
Remove the needle, apply gentle pressure with a sterile cotton ball or gauze, and cover the injection site with a sterile adhesive bandage.
Discard the used syringe and needle in a puncture-resistant container and properly dispose of all sharps.
Document the procedure in the patient's medical record, including the date, time, site, medication, dose, and any adverse reactions.
By following these steps, the nurse can ensure the safe and effective administration of an intradermal injection.