EXPERIMENTAL TECHNIQUES (cont)
The cephalic vein on the dorsal surface of the fore limb is routinely used for intravenous injections and blood collection. Clip the hair over the vein, swab the skin with alcohol, restrict blood flow above the injection site and penetrate the skin and vein with the bevel of the needle up. Pull back slightly on the plunger and if blood enters the syringe you know the needle is in the vein. After you are certain that the needle is in the vessel, release the tourniquet and proceed with the injection.
The venipuncture technique is similar for blood collection except that the tourniquet is left in place during blood withdrawal and then released before removing the needle from the vein.
Apply pressure to the site for 3 - 5 minutes to seal the puncture wound in the vein and avoid a hematoma.
You may also give IV medications or collect small blood samples using a branch of the lateral saphenous vein on the lateral aspect of the tarsal area