Date of Award

Summer 2023

Project Type

Thesis

College or School

CHHS

Department

Nursing

Program or Major

Direct-Entry Masters of Nursing

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Elizabeth Evans

Abstract

Background: Intramuscular (IM) injections are used to deliver medication quickly and efficiently. However, the Centers for Disease Control has changed their guidelines on how to administer medication using the IM injection route. A quality improvement was conducted at Wildcat Hospital that focused on increasing healthcare professionals’ IM injection knowledge.

Methods: A pre-intervention survey was administered to RNs, LPNs, and Paramedics to assess their knowledge and IM injection technique. After the initial survey, an educational PowerPoint was presented to staff and management. This was followed with pamphlets that reviewed the information covered in the presentation. A post-intervention survey was administered to measure the effects of the intervention.

Results: This quality improvement project did not influence the use of the Z-track method, massaging the injection site, or aspirating before injection. However, after the intervention there was a 27% increase in vastus lateralis injection site usage. Additionally, there was a 19% increase in ventrogluteal injection site usage. Finally, there was a 36% increase in recognizing that that the ventrogluteal injection site is safe and is unlikely to damage the sciatic nerve.

Conclusion: This QI project positively influenced some aspects of IM injection technique. It increased the usage and knowledge of the vastus lateralis and ventrogluteal injection sites. Additional Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) cycles should be executed to further improve IM injection technique.

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