What it means
A medicine, usually given as a shot, that shows the immune systemih-MYOON SIS-tumThe body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.Full entry a harmless form or part of a germ so the body learns to fight it before a real infection. Some are live attenuated (a weakened living germ, such as measlesMEE-zulzA very contagious illness caused by the measles virus; also called rubeola.Full entry -mumps-rubella and varicella); others are inactivated, made from parts of the germ, or mRNA. Giving vaccines is called immunization. Soreness at the site, mild fever and tiredness are common and pass quickly.
For the nurse
Check the client's history and allergies and whether any vaccine is due. Live vaccines are generally not given during pregnancy or to people with a weak immune system. Give the vaccine information statement, watch for an allergic reaction after the shot, and record the product, lot number, site and date.
In a chart
"Influenza vaccine 0.5 mL IM left deltoid; VIS given; no reaction at 15 minutes."
At a glance
| Spanish | vacuna |
|---|---|
| Also written | vaccines, vaccination, vaccinations |
Related terms
intramuscular
Into a muscle; used for a drug given by injection into muscle tissue.
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
measles
A very contagious illness caused by the measles virus; also called rubeola.
influenza
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by influenza viruses; the flu.