Vaccine (syringe Shot) Recipe

Hand hygiene and PPE

Perform hand hygiene according to local protocol (soap and water or ABHR). Put on non-sterile gloves before handling vaccine and supplies.

Check vaccine

Confirm vaccine type, lot number, and expiry date on the vial/ampule. Inspect for particulate matter, discoloration, or damage. Do not use if compromised.

Prepare workspace

Clean a work surface. Open all required supplies (syringe, needles, swabs, gauze, bandage) using aseptic technique. Place sharps container within reach but out of immediate workspace.

Mixing or reconstitution (if required)

If the vaccine requires reconstitution, follow manufacturer instructions exactly: use the provided diluent, withdraw recommended volume into a syringe, inject into the vial, gently invert the vial until solution is uniform (do not shake vigorously). Ensure no foam or large bubbles.

Prepare vial or ampule

If using a multi-dose vial, wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab and allow to dry. For an ampule, ensure neck is scored and open per manufacturer instructions, using a gauze to protect your fingers.

Attach drawing needle (if separate)

Attach an appropriate drawing needle to the syringe if one is used for vial withdrawal. Ensure it is secure and the syringe plunger moves smoothly.

Withdraw dose

Invert the vial and insert the needle into the stopper (or open ampule and insert needle). Withdraw the exact recommended dose into the syringe. Keep the needle tip below fluid level to avoid drawing air. Remove excess air by gently tapping syringe and depressing plunger until a small drop appears at the needle tip; maintain the correct dose.

Change to injection needle

If drawing needle is different from injection needle, remove drawing needle using one-hand scoop or needle-cap safety technique and discard into sharps container. Attach the appropriate injection needle securely, taking care not to contaminate the needle or shaft.

Verify patient

Confirm patient identity and verify any contraindications or allergies. Explain the procedure and obtain consent. Position patient comfortably (sitting or lying as appropriate).

Select and prepare injection site

Select site based on vaccine and patient age/size (common: deltoid muscle for adults/older children, anterolateral thigh for infants). Expose site, palpate anatomical landmarks to avoid nerves and blood vessels. Cleanse the skin with an alcohol swab in a circular motion from center outward and allow to air dry completely.

Injection technique

Stabilize the injection site with your non-dominant hand. Hold the syringe like a dart with the dominant hand. Insert the needle at the correct angle for route: intramuscular typically 90 degrees; subcutaneous typically 45 degrees. Insert smoothly and steadily to the hub appropriate for muscle thickness. Depress the plunger steadily to deliver the dose. Withdraw the needle quickly and activate safety shield if available.

Post-injection care

Immediately apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze; do not rub vigorously. Apply adhesive bandage if needed. Dispose of needle and syringe directly into the sharps container without recapping unless a clearly defined safe recapping method is required by local policy.

Documentation

Record vaccine name, manufacturer, lot number, expiry date, dose, route, site of administration, date/time, and vaccinator name in the patient record and on the vaccine card.

Observation

Advise the patient to remain under observation for the recommended period (commonly 15 minutes for most vaccines; longer if history of allergic reaction). Provide aftercare instructions and list of possible common side effects and when to seek care.

Clean up

Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene. Ensure all used supplies (except sharps) are disposed of appropriately. Ensure sharps container is closed when full and disposed of according to local regulations.