Others use a lying position, usually right side down, as the patient will be tilted left side down during the surgery. However, even left side down can be used. Inglis showed that the sitting position is quicker, and that these patients require less ephedrine. I recommend a formal scrub and gown until one is quick at the procedure. Morgan describes a range of alternative doses.
Some people prefer a lower dose of morphine, or use fentanyl or sufentanil.
Use a filter needle to draw up the drugs. I therefore changed to 27 gauge, and have had no further problems. This eliminates one needle prick. Now, take the spinal needle and insert it through the introducer. This is easier if you let the needle rest on the lowest part of the inside of the rim of the introducer, which then stabilises it in the midline, so that you only have to get the position right in the vertical plane to enter the introducer needle's aperture.