Blood sampling

Abstract

Blood sampling can be done using a syringe and needle or a vacutainer kit. Blood collection is usually done from the jugular vein, but the cephalic vein may also be used. Blood sampling from the jugular can be done with the animal in a sitting position with its head twisted up to one side. The vein is raised by pressure, the needle is inserted into the vein and blood is withdrawn. When enough blood has been collected the pressure on the vein is released and the needle is withdrawn. Afterwards, pressure is applied to the punctured site.REFERENCE: : Lane, DR & Cooper, B 2003 ‘Veterinary nursing’, 3rd ed., Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford, pp.336.