What does the abbreviation "IM" stand for in medical terminology?

The abbreviation "IM" in medical terminology stands for "Intramuscular." This term is primarily used to describe a method of administering medication directly into a muscle, which allows for the rapid absorption of the drug into the bloodstream. Intramuscular injections are commonly utilized for vaccines, hormones, and other medications that require a more immediate effect than oral administration can provide.

The other options, while valid terms in their own context, do not represent what "IM" stands for in the medical field. "Immediate" does not specifically relate to a method of administration; "Infection Management" refers to a broader concept in healthcare; and "Intermittent Monitoring" implies a process of observing vital signs or conditions at set times rather than a specific injection route.