HESI CAT Exam Related

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The nurse is preparing to administer an IM injection to a 6-month-old child. Which injection site is best for the nurse to use?

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

Rationale: The vastus lateralis is the preferred site for IM injections in infants due to their limited muscle mass and safety. Infants do not have well-developed muscle mass, making the vastus lateralis the best option for IM injections. The deltoid muscle is typically used for older children and adults. Ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal sites are not recommended for infants due to safety concerns, including the risk of damaging the sciatic nerve. Therefore, the correct choice is the vastus lateralis for IM injections in infants.