Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

What does IM stand for in medical terminology related to wildlife rehabilitation?

1. Intramuscular

2. Intraosseous

3. Intraperitoneal

4. Oral, by the mouth

The correct answer is: Intramuscular

In medical terminology, particularly in the context of wildlife rehabilitation, "IM" stands for Intramuscular. This term refers to a method of administering medications directly into the muscle tissue. Intramuscular injections are commonly used due to the relatively quick absorption rate of medications into the bloodstream compared to other routes. This method is often selected when immediate effects are needed or when oral administration is not feasible due to an animal's condition, species-specific protocols, or the nature of the medication. Understanding the distinctions between different routes of administration is crucial for wildlife rehabilitators. While options such as intraosseous and intraperitoneal are also valid methods for delivering medications, they serve specific purposes that may not be as commonly employed as intramuscular injections in many rehabilitation scenarios. Oral administration is another route mentioned, but it may not be suitable for all cases, especially if the animal is unable to ingest food or medicine due to injury, illness, or stress.