Equine Fluid Therapy Flashcards
What is the maintenance IV fluid rate in horses?
2ml/kg/hr
What is the shock rate IV bolus rate in horses?
20ml/kg
What is the total shock volume you can give to horses?
80ml/kg
What is a hypertonic fluid and what are the indications for its use in horses?
- 2% NaCL
- Traumatic brain injury (to control cerebral oedema)
- To stabilise a surgical colic pre-anaesthesia (maintains organ perfusion)
Describe how you would use hypertonic fluids in a horse.
Initial bolus 4ml/kg immediately followed by Hartmann’s.
What isotonic fluids are available for use in horses?
- Hartmann’s
- 0.9% NaCl (saline)
What types of fluids are available for use in horses?
- Isotonic
- Hypertonic
- Plasma
- Colloids
- Whole blood
- Hypotonic (water)
What is the oral bolus volume in horses? What additional benefit does an oral bolus provide for colic cases?
6-10L via NG tube.
- Stimulates gastrocolic reflex so increases GI motility
What routes are available for fluid therapy in horses?
- Oral (bolus & CRI)
- Rectal (CRI)
- IV (bolus & CRI)
What are the clinical signs of hypovolaemia in horses?
- Depressed/quiet demeanour
- Tacky/congested MMs
- Prolonged CRT
- Weak peripheral pulses (facial, digital)
- Sunken eyes
- Prolonged skin tent
- Decreased urine output
- Decreased rectal temperature (reduced peripheral perfusion)
What diagnostic tests could identify hypovolaemia and what parameters are you interested in?
Haematology - Increased PCV Biochemistry - Increased total solids - Increased lactate Urinalysis - Increased USG
What is the most expensive route of fluid administration in horses?
IV
What are some complications of IVFT in horses?
- Thrombophlebitis (catheter site)
- Air embolus
What is an absolute contraindication for oral fluid therapy in horses?
When reflux is observed upon passage of an NG tube
What is a contraindication for botb oral and rectal fluid therapy?
The temperament of the horse/compromised safety of the handlers
