Question

After inserting the needle, but before injecting into a vein, what should always be done:

Option 1: Aspirate the plunger
Option 2: Massage the area gently
Option 3: Change the needle to a new one
Option 4: Nothing, inject quickly before the animal moves

Answer 1

Aspirating the plunger is the correct practice after inserting the needle into a vein to ensure the needle is correctly placed. It involves pulling back on the plunger to see if blood enters the syringe, which indicates vein placement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct practice after inserting the needle, but before injecting into a vein, is to aspirate the plunger. This step is crucial to ensure that the needle is properly placed in the vein and not in a tissue or an artery. Aspirating means to pull back on the plunger to create a vacuum. If blood enters the syringe upon aspiration, it indicates that the needle is in the vein, and it is safe to proceed with the injection. This step is part of basic injection technique and is meant to prevent inappropriate administration of the substance being injected. It is not recommended to massage the area, as it may cause discomfort or displace the needle. Changing the needle to a new one is unnecessary at this point and would only be done if the needle is compromised. It is also not advisable to inject quickly before the animal moves, as this could result in improper placement or injury.