Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

An MA is administering an intradermal injection for allergy testing. Which of the following actions should the assistant take?

1. Inject quickly

2. Inject deeply

3. Locate the area over a bone

4. Locate the area two to three finger-widths below the antecubital space

The correct answer is: Locate the area two to three finger-widths below the antecubital space

When administering an intradermal injection, particularly for allergy testing, it is crucial to select the correct site to ensure accurate results and patient safety. Locating the area two to three finger-widths below the antecubital space is appropriate because this region is commonly used for intradermal testing. It is accessible, has sufficient skin thickness for the injection, and minimizes the risk of hitting blood vessels or nerves. The other actions in the incorrect options could compromise the effectiveness and safety of the procedure. Injecting quickly might not allow for the appropriate absorption and could lead to discomfort or failure to achieve the intended response. Injecting deeply is against the technique of intradermal injections, which are meant to deposit a small amount of fluid just beneath the skin's surface, not deep into the tissues. Finally, locating the injection area over a bone would increase the risk of pain and injury, as injecting into bone is not suitable for this type of administration. Thus, selecting the correct anatomical location is a critical step in successfully performing an intradermal injection.