ATI Capstone Class Exam Week 12 Related

Review ATI Capstone Class Exam Week 12 related questions and content

A nurse is preparing to administer vitamin K by IM injection to a newborn. The nurse should administer the medication into which of the following muscles?

  • A. Dorsogluteal
  • B. Vastus lateralis
  • C. Deltoid
  • D. Ventrogluteal
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vastus lateralis. This muscle is the preferred site for IM injections in infants due to its large muscle mass and minimal risk of injury to nerves and blood vessels. The dorsogluteal site (choice A) is not recommended for neonates due to the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve. The deltoid muscle (choice C) is not suitable for newborns as it lacks adequate muscle mass and can lead to nerve injury. The ventrogluteal site (choice D) can be used in older infants but is not the preferred site for newborns.