What is the needle gauge range for an intradermal injection?

The needle gauge range for an intradermal injection is typically between 25 to 26 gauge. These needles are thin enough to allow for the administration of very small volumes of medication, usually less than 0.1 mL, into the dermis, which is the layer of skin just beneath the outer epidermis. This method is often used for allergy tests, tuberculosis screening, and vaccinations such as the BCG vaccine.

Choosing a thinner gauge, such as 25 or 26, is essential because intradermal injections require precision and minimal tissue disruption. Using a larger gauge needle, like the ones associated with the other options, could cause more pain and discomfort for the patient, as well as potentially affecting the integrity of the injection site. Thus, a gauge range of 25-26 is ideal for ensuring both patient comfort and effective delivery of the medication into the correct layer of skin.