Intradermal Medication Administration
Key Points
- Intradermal injections deliver small medication volumes into the dermis for testing and selected medications.
- Correct technique uses a 10-15 degree angle with small-gauge needle selection.
- Formation of a wheal/bleb indicates appropriate intradermal placement.
Equipment
- Ordered intradermal medication and syringe
- Needle typically 25 to 27 gauge and 0.25 to 0.5 in (6.4 to 12.7 mm)
- Antiseptic solution, gauze, and optional adhesive dressing
- Documentation tool for route, site, dose, and response
Procedure Steps
- Verify patient identity, order, and medication rights before preparation.
- Select an appropriate site, typically inner forearm or upper back.
- Assess skin integrity and any prior adverse intradermal reaction history.
- Cleanse injection area with antiseptic and allow to dry.
- Insert needle at a 10-15 degree angle into the dermis.
- Inject medication slowly to minimize tissue trauma and leakage.
- Confirm wheal/bleb formation, indicating correct placement.
- Withdraw needle and cover site with gauze or adhesive dressing as indicated.
- Monitor site for redness, swelling, itching, or other adverse response.
- Teach patient to avoid scratching or rubbing the site.
- Document medication, dose, route, site, and patient response.
Common Errors
- Incorrect injection angle or depth → failed intradermal placement and invalid test result.
- Not confirming wheal/bleb → uncertain medication deposition.
- Rubbing/scratching the site → irritation and inaccurate skin-test interpretation.
- Incomplete documentation → unsafe continuity and interpretation gaps.
Related
- oral-medication-administration-safety - Route-specific safety checks align with shared medication-rights workflow.
- medication-administration-process - Comprehensive framework for nursing assessment, documentation, and evaluation responsibilities.