HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

What is the correct procedure for administering a 2.0 mL IM injection to a 2-year-old child?

1. Administer the medication in 2 separate injections

2. Give the medication in the dorsal gluteal site

3. Call to get a smaller volume ordered

4. Check with pharmacy for a liquid form of the medication

The correct answer is: Administer the medication in 2 separate injections

Administering a 2.0 mL intramuscular (IM) injection to a 2-year-old child requires special consideration due to the smaller muscle mass and potential discomfort associated with larger volumes. The correct approach in this case is to administer the medication in 2 separate injections. This is appropriate because the vastus lateralis muscle, commonly used for IM injections in young children, generally should not receive more than 1 mL per injection site. By splitting the total volume into two separate injections, the healthcare provider can minimize pain and discomfort for the child as well as reduce the risk of complications associated with injecting a larger volume into a smaller muscle. While the other options might seem relevant, they do not address the correct method for administering the injection in a way that is both safe and effective for a young child.