Intradermal injections are administered just below the epidermis into the dermis. They have the longest absorption time of all parenteral routes, so they are used for sensitivity tests and local anesthesia. The small dose is injected at a shallow angle of 5 to 15 degrees using a tuberculin syringe and small gauge needle. Proper sites are assessed and precautions are taken to safely perform the injection.

1. Intradermal injections
BY,
MS. EKTA S PATEL

3.  Intradermal injections are administered into the dermis,
just below the epidermis.

4.  The intradermal route has
the longest absorption time of
all parenteral routes. For this
reason, intradermal injections
are used for sensitivity tests,
such as tuberculin and allergy
tests, and local anesthesia.

7.  The advantage of the intradermal route for these
tests is that the body’s reaction to substances is
easily visible, and degrees of reaction are
discernible by comparative study.

8.  Sites commonly used are the
inner surface of the forearm
and the upper back, under
the scapula.

9.  Equipment used for an intradermal injection
includes a tuberculin syringe calibrated in tenths
and hundredths of a milliliter and a 1⁄4- to 1⁄2-inch,
26- or 27-gauge needle.

10.  The dose given intradermally is small, usually less
than 0.5 mL.

11.  The angle of administration for an intradermal
injection is 5 to 15 degrees

14. Equipments:
 Prescribed medication
 Sterile syringe, usually a
tuberculin syringe
calibrated in tenths and
hundredths, and needle,
1⁄4- to
 1⁄2-inch, 26- or 27-gauge
 Antimicrobial swab
 Disposable gloves
 Small gauze square
 PPE, as indicated
 Macintosh
 Paper bag or kidney
tray

21. Assessment:
 Assess the patient for any allergies.
 Check expiration date before administering
medication.
 Assess the appropriateness of the drug for the
patient.

22.  Review assessment and laboratory data that may
influence drug administration.
 Assess the site on the patient where the injection is
to be given.
 Avoid areas of broken or open skin.

23.  Avoid areas that are highly pigmented, and those
that have lesions, bruises, or scars and are hairy.
 Assess the patient’s knowledge of the medication.
 This may provide an opportune time for patient
education.
 Verify the patient’s name, dose, route, and time of
administration.