The nurse is preparing to administer an intradermal injection.
Which angle should the nurse insert the needle?

Choice A rationale

A 15-degree angle is typically used for intradermal injections, where the medication is deposited just beneath the epidermis to form a bleb, not for subcutaneous injections which target the adipose tissue layer. Taut skin is also incorrect for subcutaneous.

Choice B rationale

For an average-sized client receiving a subcutaneous injection, a 45-degree angle facilitates optimal medication deposition into the subcutaneous adipose tissue layer. Pinching the skin helps to elevate the subcutaneous tissue away from underlying muscle, reducing the risk of intramuscular injection.

Choice C rationale

A 90-degree angle is typically used for intramuscular injections in most adults, aiming to deposit medication deep into muscle tissue. Stretching the skin is generally more appropriate for intramuscular injections rather than subcutaneous.

Choice D rationale

Z-tracking is a technique primarily used for intramuscular injections of irritating medications to prevent leakage back into subcutaneous tissue. It is not a standard technique for subcutaneous injections, which use a different angle and skin manipulation.

Choice A rationale

While method of administration is crucial, controlled substance schedule and identification are not universally required on every prescription. The core components for safe and effective medication administration are paramount for all prescriptions.

Choice B rationale

This choice omits the method of administration, which is vital for safe and effective drug delivery. Without this information, there is a risk of administering the medication incorrectly, potentially leading to adverse effects or lack of therapeutic benefit.

Choice C rationale

A complete prescription scientifically requires the drug name for identification, the dose to ensure therapeutic effect and prevent toxicity, the method of administration for correct delivery route, and the prescriber's signature for legal authorization and accountability.

Choice D rationale

Controlled substance schedules are specific to certain medications and identification is not a standard universal requirement on all prescriptions. The core components for general medication administration are the drug name, dose, method, and prescriber signature.