NCLEX-PN® ExaminationSafety and Infection ControlEasy
A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection to an adult client. Which action is the most appropriate for ensuring client safety during this procedure?
- AAspirating the syringe for blood return before injecting the medication.
- BAdministering the injection rapidly to minimize client discomfort.
- CReusing the same needle for multiple injections if the client is receiving the same medication.
- DMassaging the injection site vigorously after medication administration.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Aspirating the syringe for blood return before injecting the medication.
Aspirating the syringe for blood return is a critical safety step for intramuscular injections to ensure the needle is not in a blood vessel. Injecting into a blood vessel can cause rapid systemic absorption and adverse reactions.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Rapid injection can increase pain and tissue damage.
- C. Needles are single-use devices to prevent infection and maintain sharpness.
- D. Massaging after injection can sometimes increase medication absorption or cause tissue irritation, and is not a universal practice for all IM injections.
IM Injection Aspiration
The practice of pulling back on the syringe plunger after needle insertion but before medication injection to check for blood return.
- Prevents accidental intravascular injection.
- Not required for all IM injection sites or medications (e.g., vaccines).
- If blood is aspirated, withdraw the needle and prepare a new injection.
Memory trick: Inject Smart, Aspirate First, No Vein Burst!