Final answer:
The preferred IM injection site for children under 3 is the Vastus lateralis muscle, located in the thigh, due to its safety and avoidance of major nerves and vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The preferred IM injection site for children under 3 is the Vastus lateralis muscle. This muscle is located in the thigh and is considered a safe site for intramuscular injections in infants and young children due to its size and the absence of major nerves and blood vessels in this area. The other options, such as the dorsogluteal and ventrogluteal sites, are generally avoided in children this young due to the risk of damage to nerves or blood vessels.
For reference:
- a) inferior to the gluteal region
- b) inferior to the umbilical region
- c) superior to the cervical region
- d) superior to the popliteal region
The vastus lateralis muscle is located superior to the popliteal region, which is the area at the back of the knee. When administering an injection to this area, the vastus lateralis should be identified to ensure accuracy and safety for the child.