How should a tick vaccine be correctly administered in the shoulder? - briefly
Inject the vaccine into the deltoid muscle at a 90‑degree angle, targeting the upper outer third of the shoulder to avoid the axillary nerve and major vessels, and use a sterile needle with proper aseptic technique. Follow the recommended dose and observe the injection site for any immediate reactions.
How should a tick vaccine be correctly administered in the shoulder? - in detail
The tick vaccine must be delivered into the deltoid muscle using a sterile, single‑use syringe and a needle of appropriate length (typically 1‑1.5 inches for adults, ½‑inch for children). Follow these steps precisely:
- Verify patient identity, vaccine lot number, and expiration date. Record the indication for vaccination.
- Position the patient upright, arm relaxed at the side, or with the elbow flexed 90° and the hand resting on the thigh. This exposes the upper arm without tension.
- Identify the injection site: locate the acromion process, then measure 2–3 cm distal to it along the lateral aspect of the humerus. The injection point lies in the central third of the deltoid muscle, avoiding the upper 1 cm near the shoulder joint and the lower 1 cm near the humeral head.
- Clean the area with an alcohol swab using a circular motion from the center outward. Allow the skin to dry completely.
- Attach the needle securely to the syringe. Hold the syringe like a dart, with the thumb on the plunger and the index finger supporting the barrel.
- Insert the needle at a 90° angle to the skin, penetrating the muscle to a depth that places the tip fully within the deltoid (approximately 1 cm for adults, less for children). Ensure no resistance is felt that would indicate bone contact.
- Depress the plunger steadily to deliver the full vaccine volume (usually 0.5 ml). Observe for any leakage or backflow.
- Withdraw the needle swiftly at the same angle of entry. Apply gentle pressure with a sterile gauze pad for 5–10 seconds; do not massage the site.
- Dispose of the needle and syringe in an approved sharps container. Document the vaccine name, dose, site, needle size, and any immediate reactions.
Post‑administration monitoring for at least 15 minutes is recommended to detect adverse events. The patient should be instructed to keep the injection site clean and report any persistent redness, swelling, or systemic symptoms.