APhA Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery Practice Test

The appropriate dose and route of administration for the herpes zoster vaccine, specifically the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix), for individuals aged 50 years and older is 0.5 mL given intramuscularly. This vaccination is recommended to boost immunity against the varicella-zoster virus, which can lead to shingles.

In the case of the patient being a 63-year-old woman, the correct administration aligns with the guidelines set by health authorities, which specify an intramuscular route rather than a subcutaneous one. An intramuscular injection is preferred for this vaccine to ensure better absorption and immune response.

The possibility of selecting a subcutaneous route is more common for some other vaccines, but for the herpes zoster vaccine, intramuscular administration is the established standard. Thus, the appropriate choice is the administration of 0.5 mL intramuscularly, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the recommended practices for effective immunization delivery in this age group.