Route of administration of BCG in a school population outcome of an audit of clinical practice in North Bedfordshire

Abstract

Following findings of variations in policies and practices of BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Gúerin) administration in different parts of England and Wales, recommendations were made for BCG vaccination to be administered intradermally using disposable equipment. Intradermal methods were used for BCG in Bedfordshire until 1981 but it was changed in 1982 to percutaneous method using the reusable modified heaf gun. Suggestion to revert from percutaneous to intradermal method caused anxiety amongst health professionals with anecdotal reports of scar formations and keloids causing disfigurement at injection site. An audit was therefore carried out to assess the outcome of intradermal BCG administration initially by doctors and then by nurses. The outcome did not justify initial anxieties.