ASAN002 - Medical Nursing Flashcards
What is the primary objective of the ASAN002 course?
To demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and ability to perform medical procedures and implement specific patient care in a veterinary setting.
What percentage of body weight in adult animals is composed of water?
On average, 60% of an adult animal’s body weight is water.
Why should fluid therapy plans for obese patients consider ideal weight rather than current weight?
Because fatty tissue contains less water, which helps avoid overhydration in fluid therapy.
What are the two main categories of body water distribution?
Intracellular fluid (ICF), within cells, and extracellular fluid (ECF), outside cells.
What is considered a normal daily water balance for dogs and cats?
Typically, 50 ml per kg of body weight per day, ranging from 40-60.
What are the main causes of abnormal fluid loss in animals?
Vomiting, diarrhea, blood loss, anorexia, evaporation (from panting), disease, and surgical procedures.
What are the primary goals of fluid therapy?
To replace lost fluid and electrolytes and to maintain normal fluid and electrolyte balance when intake is inadequate.
What are the five questions to consider when creating a fluid therapy plan?
Is fluid therapy indicated? How much fluid should be given? At what rate? By what route? What type of fluid should be given?
What clinical signs can indicate dehydration in a patient?
Tacky mucous membranes, delayed skin tenting, sunken eyes, and cold extremities.
How is dehydration level often assessed in a veterinary setting?
By patient history, physical examination, and laboratory analysis.
What does an increased packed cell volume (PCV) indicate in dehydration assessment?
It suggests fluid deficit, as higher PCV levels correspond to fluid loss.
What is the ‘rule of thumb’ formula for rehydrating a dehydrated animal?
Multiply the body weight in kg by the percentage dehydration, then by 10 to get the missing volume in milliliters.
What types of fluids are generally used for maintenance fluid therapy?
Hypotonic fluids, such as 0.45% NaCl + 2.5% dextrose or Plasmalyte 56.
What are the two main types of crystalloids?
Replacement fluids and maintenance fluids.
What is the main use of hypertonic crystalloids in fluid therapy?
To rapidly expand blood volume, especially beneficial in treating hypovolemic and hemorrhagic shock.
What are colloids, and when are they typically used?
Colloids contain large molecules that stay in the bloodstream to draw fluid into vessels; they are used for hypovolemic shock and hypoproteinemia.
What is the primary function of a syringe pump in veterinary medicine?
To administer small or precise fluid volumes at a constant rate, especially for small patients.
Why are labels essential on fluid bags used for IV administration?
They indicate the date, time, initials, and additive concentrations, ensuring that all nursing personnel are informed.
What are the potential side effects of Voluven, a synthetic colloid?
Minor allergic reactions, increased bleeding time, and, rarely, severe anaphylactic reactions.
What is Mannitol, and when is it typically used in fluid therapy?
Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to reduce cerebral or intraocular pressure and treat kidney-related urine output issues.
What is the preferred route for administering fluids to severely dehydrated patients?
Intravenous administration, as it allows rapid absorption and can accommodate various fluid types.
In what cases might intraosseous fluid administration be preferred?
In cases where venous access is challenging, such as with neonates or patients with collapsed circulation.
What types of catheters are typically used for short-term or less mobile patients?
Winged or butterfly catheters.
Which type of catheter is commonly used for peripheral veins in veterinary patients?
Over-the-needle catheters.