Essentials of recovery Flashcards
During which period are most anaesthetic morbidities identified?
Recovery period
Why is the recovery phase of anaesthesia dangerous?
- The level of physiological support is often greatly reduced
- Level of monitoring is often reduced
- Some problems manifest after a delay
What are the 4 most common recovery problems?
Hypothermia
Hypoxaemia
Hypo/Hypertension
Emergence delirium
What are some of the consequences of hypothermia during recovery?
Reduced MAC requirement
Delayed recovery
Shivering - uses up energy
Problems with wound healing
What are some of the main considerations when treating hypothermia?
- Continual monitoring of the patients temperature
- Never allow direct contact between the patient and the heating device
What is Emergence delirium?
‘state of dissociation of consciousness’ where the patient is incoherent, inconsolable, irritable, and uncooperative’
How can emergence delirium be prevented/treated?
Chemical (sedation) or physical restraint
Reduce stimulation, reduce noise and light level
Ensure adequate analgesia
What are the clinical signs of hypoxaemia?
Cyanotic mucus membranes
Tachypnoea/ dyspnoea
Stertor/ stridor
Reduced level of consciousness
How can hypoxaemia be treated during recovery?
Ensure patent airway – endotracheal tube, can reintubate if necessary to open airway
Ventilate, Oxygen
Additional therapy e.g. Analgesia
What are some species specific recovery problems for cats?
Gastric reflux/regurgitation/aspiration
Tracheal tear/rupture
Blindness
What are some species specific recovery problems for horses?
Colic
Myopathy
Neuropathy
Fracture
How can recovery problems be reduced?
- monitor animals as much as possible
- communication to others responsible for recovery
- anticipate risks
- rapid recognition and intervention
