Intradermal injections are given into the skin (dermal layer). Which needle size is typically used?

Intradermal injections are given into the skin (dermal layer). Which needle size is typically used?

• A. Long 1 1/2 inch, 22 gauge
• B. Extra long 2 1/2 inch, 18 gauge
• C. Short 3/8 to 5/8 inch, 26/27 gauge
• D. Medium 1 inch, 20 gauge

Answer: (C)

Intradermal injections target the dermal layer just beneath the skin surface, so you want a needle that stays shallow and causes minimal tissue trauma. A short length of 3/8 to 5/8 inch combined with a very fine gauge such as 26 or 27 allows you to deliver the solution into the dermis and form a small bleb without penetrating deeper tissues. Longer needles or thicker gauges would reach subcutaneous tissue or muscle and increase discomfort, while not placing the dose precisely where intended. So this short, fine needle setup is the best fit for intradermal injections.

Intradermal injections target the dermal layer just beneath the skin surface, so you want a needle that stays shallow and causes minimal tissue trauma. A short length of 3/8 to 5/8 inch combined with a very fine gauge such as 26 or 27 allows you to deliver the solution into the dermis and form a small bleb without penetrating deeper tissues. Longer needles or thicker gauges would reach subcutaneous tissue or muscle and increase discomfort, while not placing the dose precisely where intended. So this short, fine needle setup is the best fit for intradermal injections.