1. Gather supplies: Before giving the Depo shot, make sure you have all necessary materials at hand, including the Depo-Provera medication vial, a sterile syringe and needle, alcohol swabs, and gloves.

2. Verify patient details: Confirm the patient’s name, date of birth, and any known allergies. Ensure that you are using the correct medication and dosage according to their prescription.

3. Inform the patient: Explain to the patient what the Depo shot is and how it works. Address any concerns they may have about side effects or complications.

4. Wash your hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to minimize any contamination.

5. Put on gloves: Wearing disposable gloves ensures proper hygiene when administering an injection.

6. Select the injection site: The Depo shot can be administered either in the upper arm (deltoid muscle) or buttocks (gluteus muscle). Inquire about the patient’s preference if possible.

7. Cleanse the area: Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen injection site in circular motions outward from the center.

8. Prepare medication: Draw up the required dosage of Depo-Provera from the vial into a sterile syringe using a needle, making sure to remove any air bubbles by tapping gently on the side of the syringe with your finger.

9. Remove cap from needle and discard safely after checking for air bubbles..

10. Position patient properly: If injecting into the deltoid muscle, have them relax their arm by their side, and if injecting into the gluteus muscle, ask them to lie down on their side or bend forward at the waist while standing.

11. Administer injection: Stretching the skin taut with your thumb and index finger ensures that you reach deeper tissue during injection. Quickly insert the needle at a 90-degree angle and push the plunger gradually.

12. Withdraw needle: Remove the needle from the patient as smoothly as possible. Press an alcohol swab on the injection site to minimize bleeding or bruising.

13. Dispose of needle and syringe safely: Place used needle and syringe in an appropriate sharps container for disposal.

14. Observe patient and document: Monitor the patient for any immediate adverse reactions or complications, then document the injection time, date, site, dosage, and any additional relevant information in their record.

Following these 14 steps will help ensure a safe and successful Depo shot administration experience for both you and your patient.