DM1 Pt1-2 Preparation for Anaesthesia

Question 1

What should be obtained from the owner before anaesthetising a cat?

Answer 1

A patient history, including any pre-existing or concurrent diseases, medications, and recent changes in appetite or activity levels.

Question 2

How long should cats be starved before anaesthesia?

Answer 2

Cats should be starved for at least 3 hours before anaesthesia to reduce the risk of vomiting and aspiration.

Question 3

Why should prolonged starvation be avoided before anaesthesia?

Answer 3

Prolonged starvation increases the risk of gastro-oesophageal reflux and oesophagitis during anaesthesia.

Question 4

What systems should be examined during a clinical exam before anaesthesia?

Answer 4

Particular attention should be paid to the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Question 5

How can mean arterial blood pressure be assessed during a clinical exam?

Answer 5

It can be assessed by how easy it is to occlude the pulse; hypotension makes the pulse easier to occlude.

Question 6

Why is it important to auscultate the heart before anaesthesia?

Answer 6

To detect abnormal heart sounds (e.g. murmurs) and pulse deficits, which may indicate cardiovascular disease.

Question 7

What respiratory signs should be checked before anaesthesia?

Answer 7

Laboured breathing, abnormal respiratory sounds, and abnormalities found during auscultation or chest radiography.

Question 8

Why is it useful to check a cat’s weight before anaesthesia?

Answer 8

Weight changes may indicate concurrent disease, and drug dosages may need to be adjusted for lean bodyweight in obese cats.

Question 9

What should be done before proceeding with anaesthesia in terms of owner communication?

Answer 9

Fully informed consent should be obtained from the owner, including making them aware of the risks associated with anaesthesia.