Intramuscular Injection
Delivery of medications by intramuscular injection, with adaptations for altered muscle perfusion patterns in lunar gravity.
Indications
Medications requiring IM delivery: epinephrine, vaccines, certain antibiotics, vitamin B12.
Contraindications
Coagulopathy (relative — use smallest gauge). Injection into infected tissue.
Equipment Required
Standard Equipment
Syringe, needle (appropriate size and gauge), antiseptic, gloves.
Lunar Medical Bay Substitutions
Standard. Consider muscle thickness changes in long-term residents — reduced muscle mass means needles may need adjustment. Z-track technique recommended for all IM injections in lunar context.
Procedure Steps
Select site (deltoid, vastus lateralis, or dorsogluteal). Clean with alcohol. Z-track technique. Insert needle at 90°. Aspirate (ventrogluteal and dorsogluteal only). Inject slowly. Withdraw. Apply pressure.
Lunar Technique Modifications (1/6 Gravity)
MUSCLE ATROPHY CONSIDERATION: Long-term residents have reduced muscle mass. Deltoid preferred (more accessible). Reduce needle depth for residents with significant muscle atrophy. Monitor injection site for hematoma formation more carefully. In 1/6g, patients may not stay still without strapping — secure for injection.
Telemedicine Guidance Points
Contact Earth Medical Relay (+1.3s delay) at these critical decision points:
Unusual adverse reaction. Suspected abscess formation.
Training Requirements
All lunar residents: epinephrine auto-injector use. Medical officers: all injection techniques.
Possible Complications
Hematoma, infection, nerve injury (sciatic nerve in gluteal injections).