8.4.3: Ventrogluteal Site
- Page ID
- 89959
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The ventrogluteal muscle is a large muscle in most patients. Therefore, it is a good choice for drugs that are oil-based, irritating, or in larger amounts. This site requires skill and expertise given its proximity to the sciatic nerve and large blood vessels. Injecting into the sciatic nerve can cause nerve damage and long-term patient complications. The ventrogluteal muscle can accommodate up to 3mL of fluid. The needle length for this site ranges from 1 to 1 ½ inches, and the needle gauge is 22–25. The patient will be placed in a side-lying position.
To find landmarks for this site, use the hand opposite of the injection site. For example, if the injection will be in the patient's left ventrolateral muscle, use your right hand to locate the site. The landmarks for the ventrogluteal site include the greater trochanter, the anterior iliac spine, and the iliac crest. Find the greater trochanter and place the base of your palm over it, ensuring your fingers are pointed toward the patient’s head and your thumb is pointed to the patient’s groin. Place your index finger on the anterior iliac spine and your middle finger along the iliac crest. Your index and middle finger will form a triangle. The middle of this triangle is the area for injection. After injection, it is vital that the patient’s gait be assessed for a limp. The presence of a limp may indicate that the injection was placed in or near the sciatic nerve, and the provider should be notified immediately.