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Immunizations - childhood vaccination programme - Management
How should I administer the vaccine in a child over 2 years and under 10 years of age?

  • Obtain written or verbal consent from a person with parental responsibility at the time of vaccination.
    • A person with parental responsibility should give consent for the vaccination on behalf of the child.
    • Consent may be given in writing, orally, or implied by cooperation.
  • Check that the vaccine is correct and has not expired. Wash the site with soap and water if it is visibly dirty.
  • Administer the vaccine by intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle using a 23-gauge (blue) or 25-gauge (orange) needle, unless the child has a bleeding disorder (in which case use the subcutaneous route to reduce the risk of bleeding).
    • If the child is anxious or nervous, several measures can be tried. These include adopting a calm, sympathetic approach, giving full explanations (a common misperception is that an immunization jab is the same as a blood test), preparing and administering the vaccine out of sight of the child, and using distraction techniques.
  • Record the site of administration. If an additional vaccine is required on the same day, use separate limbs if possible, or inject at sites at least 2.5 cm apart.
  • After administration, ensure any bleeding has stopped and check the child has no symptoms of anaphylaxis before they leave.
    • Anaphylaxis is extremely rare, and usually becomes apparent within 10 minutes. By the time the site has been checked for bleeding and documentation has been completed, most reactions will have become apparent.
    • It is prudent to have a final assessment of the child before letting the them leave the premises.

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