Uzedy Injection Administration Instructions
Uzedy should be administered as an intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle using a 1-1½ inch, 22-25 gauge needle inserted at a 90-degree angle, with strict adherence to sterile technique and proper site preparation. 1
Pre-Injection Preparation
Hand Hygiene and Sterile Technique:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based waterless antiseptic hand rub before handling any injection supplies 1, 2
- Use only sterile, disposable needles and syringes for each injection—never reuse needles or syringes between patients or doses 1, 2
- Verify the medication label before drawing up the dose to prevent medication errors 1
Site Selection
Preferred Injection Sites:
- For adults and adolescents: Use the deltoid muscle as the preferred site 1, 2
- Alternative site: The anterolateral aspect of the thigh (vastus lateralis) may be used if the deltoid is not accessible 1
- Never use the buttock due to potential sciatic nerve injury risk and decreased medication efficacy 1, 2
Site Preparation
Skin Disinfection:
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab 1
- Critical step: Allow the alcohol to dry completely before injecting to prevent stinging and ensure proper disinfection 1
Needle Selection and Injection Technique
Equipment Specifications:
- Use a 1-1½ inch, 22-25 gauge needle for intramuscular injections in adults 1
- Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle (perpendicular to the skin surface) 1, 2
Injection Process:
- Do not touch the thumb button (if using a pen device) until the needle is completely inserted into the tissue 3
- Maintain pressure on the injection button throughout the entire injection 3
- Keep pressure on the button until the needle is completely withdrawn from the body to prevent aspiration of body fluid into the cartridge 3
Post-Injection Care
Immediate Post-Injection Steps:
- Apply firm pressure to the injection site for at least 2 minutes without rubbing, particularly important for patients with bleeding disorders 1
- Immediately dispose of the needle and syringe in a labeled, puncture-proof sharps container without recapping 1, 2
Critical Safety Warnings
Absolute Contraindications to Technique:
- Never inject into sites with lipohypertrophy, inflammation, edema, ulceration, or infection 3
- Never mix different medications in the same syringe unless specifically licensed for such use 2
- Never reuse or share syringes, needles, or drug preparation equipment 2
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Failing to allow alcohol to dry completely before injection (causes stinging and inadequate disinfection) 1
- Releasing the injection button before complete needle withdrawal (contaminates the medication cartridge) 3
- Using the buttock for injection (increases risk of nerve injury and reduces medication effectiveness) 1, 2