Using a medical syringe correctly depends on its intended purpose – drawing medication from a vial or administering medication orally or via injection. Let's break down each scenario.
I. Drawing Medication from a Vial
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Preparation: Ensure the tip of the needle is securely attached and the syringe is free of damage. Hold the syringe in your hand like a pencil, with the needle pointed up. (MedlinePlus)
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Needle Insertion: Carefully insert the needle into the vial containing the medication, ensuring the needle tip is submerged in the solution.
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Drawing Medication: Pull the plunger back by the flat knob to draw the drug into the syringe. (UPMC Hillman Cancer Center) Continue pulling until the syringe contains the prescribed dosage.
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Air Bubble Removal (for injections): If using for injection, carefully tap the syringe to move any air bubbles to the top. Then, expel the air bubbles by gently pushing the plunger until only medication remains. (MSKCC)
II. Using an Oral Syringe
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Choosing the Right Syringe: Oral syringes are available in various sizes. Milliliters (mL) and cubic centimeters (cc) are the same. (Children's Healthcare of Atlanta). Select a size appropriate for the medication dose.
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Measuring the Dose: Carefully draw the prescribed amount of liquid medication into the oral syringe.
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Administration: Give small amounts of medicine at a time to infants. (Nationwide Children's Hospital) Gently administer the medication to the patient. For children, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist on how to best administer the medication using an oral syringe. (Great Ormond Street Hospital)
III. Administering an Injection (Consult a Healthcare Professional)
Disclaimer: Administering injections requires proper training and sterile technique. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Incorrect injection techniques can lead to serious complications. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before attempting to administer an injection. Several resources exist online (such as the links provided) that further explain proper injection techniques, but should not be relied upon independently.
Important Considerations:
- Sterility: Maintain sterility throughout the process to prevent infection.
- Dosage: Always double-check the prescribed dosage before drawing or administering medication.
- Disposal: Dispose of used needles and syringes properly according to local regulations. Many states have Syringe Services Programs which are easily searched online. (MN Dept. of Health)
- Medication Safety: Always read and follow the instructions provided with the medication. If you have any questions, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist. Never use damaged syringes or syringes from unreliable sources. (FDA Safety Communications)
