Ref Code: PIG14

Category:      

Teaching - 3 (Instructor : student ratio 1:3)

Research - 5

Objective:

To deliver appropriate solutions for intravenous absorption.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching:

Nil

Details of procedure:

Intravenous injections are best given into a vein that can be visualised at the time of injection. This usually restricts administration to the ear vein or the cephalic vein, although the jugular vein may also be used. When injecting into the ear vein, use as small a diameter needle as is practical with the viscosity of the injected solution. It is very difficult to reliably administer IV injections in pigs under 50kg.

Before administering an IV injection, ensure that the pig is adequately restrained, usually with a snout rope (refer to SOP PIG19). With ear veins and the cephalic vein, it is necessary to occlude the vein and to swab the injection site with alcohol. The jugular vein should not be occluded but should be swabbed. Draw back before injecting material to ensure that the needle is still in the vein.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents:

Use only drugs, chemicals or biological agents recommended for intravenous delivery. The use of chemicals is controlled in NSW by the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 and the Stock Medicines Act 1989. Take care that sterile solutions remain sterile during delivery.

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s):

The procedure is well tolerated.

Reuse and repeated use:

No more than two injections should be administered per animal per day.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure:

Nil

Pain relief measures:

Nil

Qualifications, experience, skills or training necessary to perform this procedure:

Demonstrator: Must be competent in the correct techniques and familiar with the anatomy of the region. Procedures should be clearly demonstrated before attempted by students.

Students: Basic understanding of anatomy. Students should be aware of the requirements for sterile technique.