GoodNurse free practice
NCLEX Question of the Day
Review the question, check the correct answer, and read the rationale before tomorrow's prompt arrives.
A nurse is preparing to administer an intramuscular injection to a toddler. Which of the following sites is most appropriate for this age group?
-
Ventrogluteal
-
Dorsogluteal
-
Correct answer Vastus lateralis
-
Deltoid
Rationale
The vastus lateralis muscle is the preferred site for intramuscular injections in toddlers and infants due to its large muscle mass and distance from major nerves and blood vessels. The dorsogluteal site is not recommended due to the proximity of the sciatic nerve and significant fat tissue, which can affect medication absorption. The deltoid muscle is too small in toddlers for intramuscular injections and does not provide ample muscle mass to absorb medication safely. The ventrogluteal site can be used but is often less developed in toddlers compared to the vastus lateralis.
GoodNurse AI
Want to talk through why the other options are wrong? Sign up for GoodNurse to ask follow-up questions and get a guided explanation.
Free daily practice
Get the next question.
One NCLEX-style prompt, answer, and rationale in your inbox every morning. No account needed.
Free NCLEX practice. Unsubscribe anytime.