Standards Procedure (Skill)
SQ Injections IM Injections
EMT-B EMT-D EMT-I & EMT-P
EMT-I EMT-P
Clinical Indications:
Ø When medication administration is necessary and the medication must be given via the SQ or IM route or as an alternative route in selected medications.
Procedure:
a. Receive and confirm medication order or perform according to standing orders.
b. Prepare equipment and medication by expelling air from the syringe.
c. Explain the procedure to the patient and reconfirm patient allergies.
d. The most common site for subcutaneous injection is the arm. Injection volume should not exceed 1 cc.
e. The possible injection sites for intramuscular injection include the arm, buttocks, and thigh. Injection volume should not exceed 1 cc for the arm and not more than 2 cc in the thigh or buttocks.
f. The thigh should not be used for injection in pediatric patients and injection volume should not exceed 1 cc.
g. Expose the selected area and cleanse the injection site with alcohol.
h. Insert the needle into the skin with a smooth, steady motion as follows:
SQ: 45 degree angle IM: 90-degree angle
Skin pinched up skin flattened
i. Aspirate for blood.
j. Inject the medication.
k. Withdraw the needle quickly and dispose of properly without recapping.
l. Apply pressure to the site.
m. Monitor the patient for the desired therapeutic effects as well as any possible side effects.
n. Document the medication, dose, route, time, and patient response on the ACR
Certification Requirements:
Successfully complete an annual skill evaluation including the indications, contraindications, technique, and possible complications of the procedure.