Posted by dslizards on June 25, 2000 at 04:46:40:
In Reply to: Update posted by Mindy on June 24, 2000 at 11:25:29:
I have gotten far too good at subQ and IM injections for my taste. But I have done several dozen on BDs, igs, and monitors.
First prepare the syringe, if your vet has not done so ahead of time. If you need to inject .20 CCs, fill the syringe to .30 CCs. While holding the syringe straight up, tap the sides a few times with your fingernail, this will knock air bubbles off the sides. Depress the plunger slowly until you reach the desired dosage.
Next, prepare your pet for injection. I can do injections solo, because Cirsisue has such an adversion to needles, but I do not advise it for anyone who has not done it many times. I wrap a towel around the head and unused foreleg, keeping the syringe between my teeth. I kneel over the reptile pinning the tail between my knees and ankles. Now, with my left hand, I use my wrist to keep the towel covered head and neck pinned, and gently take the foreleg and move it to the lizards side turning it palm up. I grip gently between what would pass for for the elbow. Now, I take the syringe, (keeping my finger off the plunger), and place the needle at a shallow angle,(between scales) on the biceps. I find a small rotating motion helps slide the needle in. Put the needle in about 1/4", inject in a smooth motion, pull out and gently rub the injection area.
Sound like a big deal? The first few times I did it and shook like a leaf. But with 2 people and a resolve to get it right the first time, seriously, you can do it.
Have one person immobilize with the towel, and the other take the forelegs and inject.
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Having said all that, injectables suck! BIG TIME!
But we do what is best for our babies!
Dan