What is the traditional site for most adult intramuscular injections?

The traditional site for most adult intramuscular injections has typically been the dorsogluteal site. This location, situated in the upper outer quadrant of the gluteal muscle, has been favored for its ability to accommodate a larger volume of medication and the depth of muscle tissue, which allows for proper absorption of the injected substance.

Using the dorsogluteal site offers several advantages. It is a large muscle mass, making it suitable for intramuscular injections where a significant volume of medication is required. Moreover, this site has a lower risk of hitting major nerves or blood vessels compared to some other anatomical locations.

In contrast, although the deltoid muscle is also commonly used for intramuscular injections, especially for vaccinations, it has a more limited capacity for larger volumes and is typically reserved for smaller doses. Similarly, the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles are more often utilized in pediatric patients or specific scenarios, as they are less common for adult administration.