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What should you do when the person performing an injection indicates they are ready to inject the drug?

  1. Withdraw the needle immediately

  2. Lift the thumb that is occluding the vein

  3. Prepare an additional injection site

  4. Hold the animal more tightly

The correct answer is: Lift the thumb that is occluding the vein

When someone is ready to inject a drug, lifting the thumb that occludes the vein is important because it allows for proper blood flow and visibility once the injection is administered. During an injection, it is crucial to identify the site for the injection, especially if it is an intravenous (IV) injection. By occluding the vein with the thumb, the practitioner ensures that the vein is filled with blood, making it easier to see and access. When the injector is ready, they should lift their thumb to allow the blood to flow, which will help in confirming the placement of the needle and ensuring that the injection is successfully delivered into the vein. This action helps in avoiding extravasation and ensures that the medication is delivered where it is intended to go, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. Other considerations such as withdrawing the needle immediately or preparing an additional injection site are not relevant at this stage in the process. Holding the animal more tightly may cause distress and does not aid in the injection process; rather, calm and gentle restraint is typically advised.