Title: Demonstrate administration of a subcutaneous injection.
Course: Veterinary Science II (18105-II) > Section: Understanding Veterinary Pharmacology

Demonstration should include

- verifying patient identification and drug labels
- describing how to administer medication without contamination

  - selecting administration site
  - lifting the skin (using the thumb and forefinger forming a triangle or tent)
  - inserting the needle into the skin at the base of the tent or triangle, parallel to the body
  - inspecting for signs of blood entering the syringe
  - administering the injection (if no blood is noted)
  - withdrawing the needle and discarding it in the sharps container
  - massaging the injection site and praising the patient
- explaining exposure risks to humans and proper post-administration documentation.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it so important to verify patient identification as well as drug labels?
- What problems do contamination pose?