How should the skin be prepared before an intramuscular injection?

Preparing the skin properly before administering an intramuscular injection is crucial to minimize the risk of infection and ensure the procedure's effectiveness. Wiping the skin with alcohol is a standard practice because it helps to disinfect the area by killing any potential bacteria present on the skin's surface. After applying the alcohol, it is important to let it dry completely, which allows for optimal antiseptic effect and prevents any stinging or irritation that could occur from injecting into wet alcohol.

Using water or a dry cloth is not recommended because water does not provide the necessary antimicrobial action to disinfect the skin effectively, and rubbing with a dry cloth could introduce fibers or bacteria rather than removing them. While applying a topical anesthetic may help to reduce pain for some patients, it does not replace the need for disinfection and may not be routinely used in every situation. Thus, the correct method for preparing the skin for an intramuscular injection is to wipe with alcohol and allow it to dry thoroughly.