The advantages of the ventrogluteal muscle as an injection site in young children include which considerations? (Select all that apply.)
A) Less painful than vastus lateralis
B) Free of important nerves and vascular structures
C) Cannot be used when child reaches a weight of 20 pounds
D) Increased subcutaneous fat, which increases drug absorption
E) Easily identified by major landmarks

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The advantages of the ventrogluteal are being less painful, free of important nerves and vascular lateralis, and easily identified by major landmarks. The major disadvantage is lack of familiarity by health professionals and controversy over whether the site can be used before weight bearing. The use of the ventrogluteal has not been clarified. It has been used in infants, but clinical guidelines address the need for the child to be walking, thus generally being over 20 pounds. The site has less subcutaneous tissue, which facilitates intramuscular (rather than subcutaneous) deposition of the drug.

The Advantages of the Ventrogluteal Muscle as an Injection Site