1. For infants, the PCV should be injected on the right vastus lateralis muscle while the Penta should be injected on the left vastus lateralis muscle located on the thigh. Listed below are the origin, insertion, action, and location of the injection site.
- Vastus Lateralis
- Origin: Greater trochanter and linea aspera of femur
- Insertion: Patella via quadriceps tendon and then tibial tuberosity via patellar ligament
- Action: Extend leg at knee joint
- Location: It is the muscle on the anterior lateral aspect of the thigh that extends from above the knee to below the great trochanter. Injection site: Middle third of the muscle. Repeat the same steps for the other thigh.
2. For elderly patients, the safest and least painful injection site is the Gluteus medius which since its not close to any major blood vessels or nerves. Listed below are its origin, insertion, action, and location.
- Gluteus medius
- Origin: Iliium
- Insertion: Greater trochanter of femur
- Action: Abducts thigh at hip joint and medially rotates thigh
- Location: Place the patient in a lateral position. Use your right hand for the left hip, or left hand for the right hip. Place the heel of your palm on the greater trochanter, with your thumb pointed towards the belly button. Extend your index finger to the anterior superior iliac spine and spread your middle finger pointing towards the iliac crest. Injection site: Insert the needle into the V formed between your index finger and middle fingers.