New site for IM steroid injection?

[Maggsie]

Went to hospital on Thursday for an IM steroid, As you know this is usually a simple process with a quick jab in the bum, but I was told that there is a new protocol in place and the jab was administered in my hip area ( a couple of inches below the hip joint ). This, apparently, is to avoid any danger of catching a nerve when injecting. I must admit I was a bit flummoxed as I wasn't expecting it and it was the first time the rheumy nurse had done the procedure. Luckily, a senior 'educator' was available to supervise and all went well. I was grateful because I have been one of the unlucky ones who have had a nerve caught when receiving the jab and I was in agony for days after.

has anyone else had this new procedure?

[sylvi]

No sorry i haven't, but it sounds like a good idea. xxxx

[nanny_bee71]

This post reminded me of my days (many years ago) when training as a nurse (long retired) When injecting into the buttocks in (training school practised on an orange!!!!) it was always the upper outer quadrant area to avoid hitting the sciatic nerve - so that could be the answer!!

[AgedCrone in reply to nanny_bee71]

That rule was introduced years ago …my rheumy explained the danger of hitting a nerve at least 5 years ago.I would have thought it would have been nationwide.I well remember the oranges !!

[Maggsie in reply to AgedCrone]

Know of the upper/outeouter quadrant procedure but this was different. Had to lie down on my side and jab was administered between the hip bone and the top of the thigh.

[AgedCrone in reply to Maggsie]

I just get mine in my thigh as I perch with my leg extended….no problems so far…but thankfully I don’t get many injections as I don’t have steroids.

[Miasnana in reply to nanny_bee71]

this is how I was taught to inject using an orange and into the upper outer quadrant, and then let loose on the wards after 6 weeks basic training.

[Gnarli]

I've never had a steroid shot for RD but can appreciate the risk of hitting nerves. It's so good of you to let us all know about the new protocol

[Leics]

I had my last two in my thigh. One of the docs used the biggest needle known to man and I ended up with a dead leg for days and days which was very painful and annoying I think he put it in too far didn’t get any relief from that one either. I think it sometimes depends who you see and how they normally do it. Nurses tend to still do the butt.

[Angjoplin]

I always ask for tablets. Those injections always seem to hurt so much. Interesting to see they have changed it.