How to administer tetanus injection

Nov 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

Tetanus vaccination must be administered under professional medical supervision, typically involving steps such as selecting a qualified medical facility, assessing whether a skin test is required, and determining the injection site. Before receiving the tetanus shot, individuals should honestly inform healthcare providers of their medical history and any allergies. After injection, the injection site should remain dry for 24 hours, and pressure or friction should be avoided. If symptoms such as pus at the injection site or fever develop afterward, seek medical attention promptly.

　　Tetanus vaccination must be administered under professional medical supervision, following standardized procedures that generally include selecting a qualified medical facility, assessing the need for a skin test, determining the injection site, following proper injection protocols, and post-injection observation. A detailed breakdown is as follows:

　　1. Select a正规 medical institution: The procedure should be carried out at accredited medical facilities such as hospitals or clinics by licensed healthcare professionals. Avoid injections in non-medical settings to ensure safety and compliance with medication regulations.

　　2. Assess the need for a skin test: Healthcare providers will determine whether a skin allergy test is required based on the vaccine type (e.g., tetanus antitoxin or tetanus toxoid) and the individual's history of allergies. Individuals receiving the vaccine for the first time, those with a known allergy history, or those using certain types of tetanus vaccines must undergo a skin test first; only after confirming no adverse reaction can the injection proceed.

　　3. Determine the injection site: The standard sites are the deltoid muscle of the upper arm or the gluteal muscle. The injection site must be cleaned and disinfected to remove surface dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and ensuring proper absorption of the medication through muscle tissue.

　　4. Follow standardized injection procedures: Medical staff will draw up the correct dosage according to guidelines and administer the injection into the muscle using proper technique. Care is taken to avoid injecting too shallowly or too deeply. The patient’s physical response is monitored during the process to ensure the procedure is completed safely.

　　5. Post-injection observation: After the injection, remain at the medical facility for 30 minutes to monitor for any adverse reactions such as dizziness, rash, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Only leave after confirmation of no abnormal reactions; if discomfort occurs, immediate medical treatment can be provided.

　　Before receiving a tetanus injection, individuals should fully disclose their medical history and any known allergies to healthcare providers. Within 24 hours after injection, keep the injection site dry and avoid pressure or friction. If symptoms such as pus formation at the injection site or fever develop later, return to the medical facility promptly for follow-up evaluation.

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How to Prevent and Treat Tetanus

To prevent tetanus, it is important to promptly treat wounds, receive tetanus vaccination, strengthen protection for high-risk groups, follow proper medical procedures, and maintain daily precautions. Treatment for tetanus involves wound debridement, administration of tetanus antitoxin, anti-infective therapy, symptomatic and supportive care, and maintaining a well-controlled environment. For deep wounds or suspected symptoms of tetanus, immediate medical attention is recommended.

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Should a child receive a tetanus shot after having their foot injured by a bicycle?

If the wound is deep after a crush injury—such as when the skin is lacerated down to the subcutaneous tissue, there is significant bleeding, or the wound has been contaminated with soil, rust, or other pollutants—and if the child has not completed the tetanus vaccination series according to schedule, or more than five years have passed since the last booster dose, the risk of tetanus infection is higher. In such cases, prompt administration of a tetanus shot is necessary to prevent infection.