Establishing rapport

Greet the client warmly. Example: "Hello, please have a seat. My name is [Your Name], and I am here to assist you today. Everything we discuss will be kept confidential."
Building trust reduces anxiety and improves cooperation.

Explain the procedure

Tell the client what the vaccine protects against and the steps you will take. Example: "I am going to give you a vaccination today that will help protect you against [Name of Disease]. I will prepare the injection, clean the site and administer the vaccine; this will only take a few minutes." Clear explanations reduce fear and improve consent.

Assemble necessary items

Gather all materials: vaccine carrier with vaccine, cotton, a 0.5ml auto-destructive (AD) syringe, a hub cutter, and the immunization card. Having everything ready prevents delays and contamination.

Hand washing

Wash your hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer if water is not available. Make sure your hands are dry before handling the syringe or vaccine.

Check expiry date and appearance

Examine the vaccine vial for expiry date and visual signs of freezing or particles. The vaccine should look clear and uniform. Do not use if expired or compromised.

Record batch number

Write the batch number on the immunization card or register. This is important for tracking and quality control in case of adverse events.

Withdraw the vaccine

Open the AD syringe, insert the needle into the vial and draw the correct dose (usually 0.5ml). Dispose of the syringe wrapper and cap safely into a black bag if required by local waste rules.

Expel air and prime

Hold the syringe upright, tap gently to move air to the top, and push the plunger slowly until a tiny drop appears at the needle tip. This removes air bubbles and ensures accurate dosing.

Positioning and stretching the skin

Ask the client to expose the upper arm. Place your thumb and index finger on either side of the injection site and gently stretch the skin flat between them to make the area taut.

Inject the vaccine

Hold the syringe like a pen and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle through the skin. Push the plunger slowly and steadily to administer the vaccine.

Withdraw and press the site

Withdraw the needle and press the injection site immediately with dry cotton. Do not rub the area as rubbing may increase soreness or bleeding.

Dispose safely

Use a hub cutter to cut the hub and dispose of plastic parts in the correct waste container. Place the needle and used syringe in a sealed safety box and record the disposal if required by your facility policy.

Reassure and educate the client

Tell the client what to expect: mild discomfort or swelling is normal and should resolve within a day or two. Confirm which vaccine they received and the disease it prevents. Provide the date for the next appointment and remind them to bring their immunization card.

Safety advice: If the client experiences any severe or unexpected reactions, advise them to go to the nearest health facility immediately.