If blood return is seen during an intramuscular injection, what should you do?

If blood return is seen during an intramuscular injection, what should you do?

• A. Discontinue the site, remove the needle
• B. Withdraw and reseat needle
• C. Re-aspirate and continue
• D. Continue with injection

Answer: (A)

Blood return during an intramuscular injection means the needle tip is in or near a blood vessel, so injecting at that site could deliver the medication directly into the bloodstream. The safest move is to discontinue at this site and remove the needle. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding, then choose a new injection site and use a new needle and syringe if you’re continuing. Do not re-aspirate and inject at the same location, as that could cause intravascular administration and unpredictable effects. After relocating, proceed with the injection as intended and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions.

Blood return during an intramuscular injection means the needle tip is in or near a blood vessel, so injecting at that site could deliver the medication directly into the bloodstream. The safest move is to discontinue at this site and remove the needle. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding, then choose a new injection site and use a new needle and syringe if you’re continuing. Do not re-aspirate and inject at the same location, as that could cause intravascular administration and unpredictable effects. After relocating, proceed with the injection as intended and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions.