A staff nurse is preparing to administer BCG vaccine to a neonate in the labour room. Which of the following correctly describes the dose, route and site of administration?
- A 0.1 mL intradermally over the left deltoid ✓
- B 0.1 mL subcutaneously over the left deltoid
- C 0.05 mL intramuscularly in the anterolateral thigh
- D 0.05 mL intradermally in the right deltoid
Correct answer: A. 0.1 mL intradermally over the left deltoid
Explanation
In India, BCG is given as 0.1 mL intradermally over the left upper arm at the insertion of the deltoid, using a 26 gauge (or 27 gauge) needle with the bevel facing upward. Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection increases the risk of abscess and lymphadenitis. The 0.05 mL dose applies only to infants below 1 month of age in some international schedules, not to Indian convention.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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