CPR and Placing an Airway

Question 1

How you would assess a collapsed patient for CPR (no description necessary).

Answer 1

• Should be undertaken rapidly, within 5-10 secs.
• ABC

Question 2

Describe how you would assess and ensure A.

Answer 2

Is the airway patent?
- Best way to ensure is to undertake ET intubation.
- Patient should be positioned so the snout is aligned with the spine.

Question 3

Describe how you would assess B and the consequence if B is not present.

Answer 3

Can you see evidence of the patient breathing?
- Pluck a little fur from the patient and place near mouth/snout.
If the animal is not breathing, start CPR immediately.

Question 4

Describe how you would assess C.

Answer 4

Is there evidence of cardiac function?
- Pulse palpation; in small animal patients femoral artery commonly utilised.

Question 5

What is CPA and what does it mean for next steps?

Answer 5

• Cardiopulmonary arrest; stopped breathing (respiratory arrest) and heart stopped beating (cardiac arrest)
• SEVERE emergency as patient is close to death so CPR must be administered asap.