Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Penicillin G Benzathine, 100,000 Units (HCPCS Code: J0561)

Common Names: Penicillin Injection, Bicillin L-A Injection

Technical/Medical Terms: Intramuscular injection of Penicillin G Benzathine

Summary

Penicillin G Benzathine injection is a treatment where a single dose of penicillin is administered through an intramuscular shot. It is commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as strep throat, syphilis, and rheumatic fever.

Purpose

Penicillin G Benzathine is used to treat certain bacterial infections. It helps to kill bacteria or prevent their growth, aiming to alleviate infection symptoms and prevent the spread of the bacteria.

Indications

• Bacterial infections like strep throat and syphilis
• Preventing rheumatic fever
• Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of a susceptible bacterial infection
• Cases where oral antibiotics are not feasible or effective

Preparation

• Generally, patients do not need to fast.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any allergies, especially to penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics.
• Blood tests or cultures may be done to confirm the infection.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The area for injection (usually the buttock or thigh) will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
2. Injection: Using a sterile syringe, the healthcare provider will administer the penicillin intramuscularly.
3. Post-Injection: The injection site is covered with a small bandage.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic wipes
• Bandages

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required, but a local anesthetic cream might be applied to reduce discomfort.

Duration

The procedure typically takes only a few minutes for the injection itself, though the overall visit may be longer to allow for preparation and observation.

Setting

• Outpatient clinics
• Hospital settings
• Some urgent care centers

Personnel

• Doctors (physicians)
• Nurses
• Medical assistants

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Pain at the injection site
• Redness or swelling

Rare Complications:

• Allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis
• Infection at the injection site
• Nerve damage if not injected properly

Benefits

• Rapid treatment of bacterial infections
• Prevention of the spread of certain diseases
• Symptom relief within a few days

Recovery

• Patients can typically return to normal activities immediately.
• Keep the injection site clean and dry.
• Follow-up with the healthcare provider as needed for further management or if symptoms persist.

Alternatives

• Oral antibiotics (e.g., penicillin V, amoxicillin)
• Other injectable antibiotics
• Benefits of the injection may include higher compliance and immediate treatment compared to oral medications.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel a brief sting or discomfort from the injection. Post-procedure, mild soreness at the injection site is common, but typically subsides within a day. Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers.