Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Penicillin G Procaine

Common names: Penicillin Injection, Antibiotic Shot
Medical term: Injection, Penicillin G Procaine, Aqueous, up to 600,000 units (HCPCS Code J2510)

Summary

An injection of Penicillin G Procaine is a medical procedure that involves administering a dose of antibiotics directly into the muscle to treat bacterial infections. This method is often used when oral antibiotics are not effective or feasible.

Purpose

The primary goal of this injection is to treat bacterial infections by delivering a high concentration of antibiotics directly into the bloodstream for rapid and effective treatment.

Indications

The injection is indicated for:

• Treating bacterial infections such as syphilis, anthrax, and certain types of pneumonia.
• Patients who are unable to take oral antibiotics.
• When faster relief from infection symptoms is required.

Preparation

• No specific fasting is required.
• Inform healthcare providers about any allergies, especially to penicillin, or other medications.
• Medical history will be reviewed, and may include allergy testing if necessary.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be asked to expose the injection site, usually the upper arm or buttock.
2. The skin at the injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
3. A healthcare provider will use a syringe to inject the antibiotic into the muscle.
4. Pressure may be applied to the site post-injection to help distribute the medication.

Tools/Equipment:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic wipes
• Bandage or gauze

Anesthesia:

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required, but local anesthetic may be used for comfort.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 5-10 minutes, including preparation and administration.

Setting

This injection is usually administered in:

• Hospital settings
• Outpatient clinics
• Doctor’s offices

Personnel

• Registered Nurses (RNs)
• Physicians or Physician Assistants (PAs)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Pain or discomfort at the injection site, mild fever, dizziness, or gastrointestinal disturbances.
• Rare: Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), localized infections, or nerve damage.

Benefits

• Effective treatment of bacterial infections.
• Rapid symptom relief, usually noticeable within a few days.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; patients can generally resume normal activities almost immediately.
• Monitor for any signs of allergic reactions or complications.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to examine the efficacy of the treatment.

Alternatives

• Oral antibiotics or intravenous antibiotics.
• Pros: Oral antibiotics are non-invasive and easy to administer.
• Cons: Oral antibiotics may not be as effective or fast-acting as an injection, especially in severe infections.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel a brief prick or sting during the injection followed by some muscle soreness. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a warm compress to the injection site if discomfort persists.