RN ATI Maternal Proctored Exam 2023-2024 with NGN Related

Review RN ATI Maternal Proctored Exam 2023-2024 with NGN related questions and content

A nurse is administering a hepatitis B vaccine to a newborn. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Administer the injection into the vastus lateralis muscle.
  • B. Vigorously massage the site following the injection.
  • C. Insert the needle at a 45° angle for injection.
  • D. Use a 21-gauge needle for the injection.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer the injection into the vastus lateralis muscle. For newborns, the vastus lateralis muscle is the preferred site for intramuscular injections due to its size and well-developed muscle mass, ensuring proper absorption and minimizing the risk of injury to surrounding structures. Administering the vaccine into this muscle also helps improve vaccine efficacy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B, vigorously massaging the site, can cause discomfort, bruising, and potential tissue damage. Choice C, inserting the needle at a 45° angle, is not recommended for intramuscular injections as the needle should be inserted at a 90° angle to ensure proper delivery into the muscle. Choice D, using a 21-gauge needle, is not specific for newborns and can be too large for their small muscle mass, causing unnecessary pain and potential tissue damage.