Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What is the appropriate injection site for a 2-month-old infant?

1. Deltoid muscle

2. Vastus lateralis

3. Ventrogluteal site

4. Subcutaneous tissue

The correct answer is: Vastus lateralis

For a 2-month-old infant, the vastus lateralis muscle is the most appropriate site for intramuscular injections. This muscle, located on the outer thigh, is well developed in infants and can accommodate vaccines safely without the risk of injuring nerves or blood vessels, which is a concern with other potential sites. The vastus lateralis is recommended because it is large enough to handle the volume of the medication and is less likely to be subjected to the trauma that might occur at sites closer to joints or major nerves. The deltoid muscle, while used in older children and adults, is not adequately developed in infants under 12 months, making it a less suitable site. The ventrogluteal site, although it is safe for older children and adults, is not commonly recommended for infants due to concerns about proximity to the sciatic nerve. Additionally, injections in subcutaneous tissue are typically used for certain types of vaccinations or medications, but not for the majority of immunizations administered to infants. Thus, the vastus lateralis remains the preferred and safest option for this age group.