Risks Associated with Intramuscular Injections in the Dorsal Gluteal Site

Presenters

Chelsea Craig, Cedarville University
Joanna Huschilt, Cedarville University

Type of Submission

Poster

Campus Venue

Dixon Ministry Center, Alumni Hall

Location

Cedarville, OH

Start Date

4-10-2013 1:00 PM

End Date

4-10-2013 5:00 PM

Comments

Abstract:

Purpose: To review current literature in safe practice of dorsogluteal and vertagluteal injections. Methods: Literature published between 2007 and 2012 was reviewed using CINAHL and PUBMED and Academic Search Complete using key words "ventral gluteal," "dorsogluteal," "intramuscular injection," and "sciatic nerve" under the parameters of full text and English language. Findings: The dorosgluteal site should not be used due to risk of sciatic nerve injury and varying amounts of adipose tissue covering the dorsogluteal muscle. The alternate site of the ventral gluteal muscle should be used. Conclusion: The dorsogluteal site is unsafe and therefore the ventral gluteal site must be used. Clinical Relevance: Research findings show that harm can be done when an intramuscular injection is not given correctly in the dorsogluteal site so nurses should become confident in giving an intramuscular injection in the ventral gluteal site to avoid harming patients.

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