The nurse needs to administer an intramuscular (IM) injection to a 2-year-old child. Where is the best site to administer the injection?

A. The anterior outer quadrant of the thigh (vastus lateralis) is the preferred site for IM injections in children under 3 years of age due to the large muscle mass and ease of access. B. The deltoid muscle is not recommended for IM injections in children under 3 years due to the small muscle mass. C. The upper outer quadrant of the buttocks is not recommended for IM injections in young children because the sciatic nerve may be at risk. D. While the thigh is a preferred site, the buttocks is not ideal for young children due to the risk of nerve injury.