How can SIRVA be prevented during vaccine administration?

Preventing Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) involves ensuring that the vaccine is given in the appropriate anatomical location. Targeting the lower portion of the deltoid muscle is crucial for minimizing the risk of SIRVA. When the vaccine is administered too high on the deltoid, it can lead to inadvertent injury to the shoulder structures, including the bursa and rotator cuff muscles, which can result in pain and limited range of motion.

Understanding the anatomy of the upper arm allows the healthcare provider to identify the ideal injection site. The lower part of the deltoid is recommended for intramuscular injections, as it has the necessary muscle mass while reducing the likelihood of hitting surrounding nerves or tissues. This knowledge is essential for proper vaccine administration technique and helps ensure patient safety.

In contrast, options that suggest standing over the patient or using the longest needle possible do not address anatomical considerations, which are key to preventing adverse effects like SIRVA. While targeting the upper deltoid may seem reasonable, it actually increases the risk of SIRVA if not done correctly. Therefore, focusing on the lower portion of the deltoid, where there is greater muscle tissue and reduced proximity to sensitive structures, is the safer approach