Subcutaneous injection of 3-5 cc Xylocaine
2%. A short subcutaneous needle is used to prevent inadvertent puncture
of the radial artery.
Infiltrate
superficially by inserting the needle almost parallel to the skin. Prevent inadvertent
puncture of the radial artery since this may provoke spasm or hematoma formation.
Following radial artery puncture, an
intra-arterial cocktail is administered to prevent spasm containing
- 200 micrograms Nitroglycerin
- 5 mg of Verapamil
Intra-arterial injection causes a burning sensation of the
forearm and hand of short duration. The patient should therefore be informed on this
effect.
