As the nurse is giving an intramuscular injection, she notes blood returning into the syringe with aspiration. The best action by the nurse is to
A) Withdraw the needle and dispose of the syringe.
B) Withdraw the needle, replace the needle, and then provide the injection in a different location.
C) Push the needle deeper into the muscle and aspirate again.
D) This is a normal finding with an intramuscular injection; the nurse should proceed with the injection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of blood in the syringe during aspiration suggests that the needle has entered a blood vessel. The nurse should immediately withdraw the needle and dispose of the syringe to prevent injection of medication into the blood vessel.

As the Nurse Is Giving an Intramuscular Injection, She Notes