In the venterogluteal approach to an intramuscular injection, which muscle is targeted?

The venterogluteal approach is designed to target the gluteus medius muscle for intramuscular injections. This muscle is located deep to the more superficial gluteus maximus and is favored for injections due to its size, depth, and minimal risk of damage to major nerves and blood vessels. By using the venterogluteal site, practitioners can avoid potential complications associated with other sites, such as the gluteus maximus, which is less safe for injection due to its proximity to the sciatic nerve.

The anatomy of the venterogluteal site allows for a larger muscle mass, which can accommodate larger volumes of medication and is less likely to cause pain during and after the injection. The technique involves locating anatomical landmarks, ensuring accurate placement of the needle in the gluteus medius.

Other options target muscles that are not typically used for intramuscular injections in this specific approach. For example, while the gluteus maximus is a prominent muscle, it is not the target in the venterogluteal technique. The rectus femoris and vastus lateralis are part of the quadriceps group in the thigh and are used for injections in different scenarios, but are not the focus of the v