What is the correct angle for administering an intramuscular injection?

When administering an intramuscular injection, the correct angle is 90 degrees. This angle ensures that the needle is inserted directly into the muscle tissue, which is essential for effective absorption of the medication. Intramuscular injections require that the medication be delivered deep into the muscle mass, allowing for a quicker systemic absorption compared to other routes, such as subcutaneous.

At a 90-degree angle, the injection is less likely to inadvertently enter other tissues like fat or fascia, which could affect how the medication is absorbed and its potential effectiveness. Additionally, using this angle minimizes discomfort for the patient and decreases the risk of complications, ensuring that the needle tip is positioned appropriately for the desired intramuscular delivery of the drug. The angle of 90 degrees is standard practice in clinical settings for intramuscular injections and is widely taught in nursing and medical training.