Verify the medication order, patient identity, allergies, and expiration date
Perform hand hygiene and gather supplies
Select the correct gluteal site, preferably the ventrogluteal site
Position the patient comfortably with the muscle relaxed
Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry
Use the correct needle length and gauge for the patient and medication
Stretch the skin or use the Z-track technique if indicated
Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle
Aspirate only if required by local protocol and medication type
Inject the medication slowly and steadily
Withdraw the needle smoothly and apply gentle pressure with gauze
Do not massage the site unless specifically instructed
Dispose of the needle and syringe in a sharps container
Monitor the patient for immediate adverse reactions
Document the medication, dose, site, time, and patient response