A study to assess the intradermal, triangular needle and bifurcated needle techniques in the administration of BCG to newborns

Abstract

BCG at birth was administered to 3,297 new born babies in Hong Kong using the intradermal, simple triangular needle and bifurcated needle techniques. Tuberculin testing at 3 months showed similar mean reactions for the intradermal and simple triangular needle methods, namely 9·74 mm and 9·87 mm with 9·94 mm for the triangular needle method when the BCG strength was doubled. Using the bifurcated needle the mean reactions were significantly lower; 8·69 mm, 9·01 mm with double strength BCG and 8·92 mm with puncture through a skin drop. It is concluded that the bifurcated needle is not a satisfactory method of administering BCG to newborns even if the concentration of BCG is increased. In circumstances such as in small maternity units, where the intradermal technique is not warranted, it is recommended that the simple triangular method should be used.