Physical Examination Flashcards
BAR
Bright, Alert & Responsive
Normal state of consciousness and alertness
QAR
Depressed, Dull, Quiet
Responsive, but quiet. Most common presentation for sick animals
Usually these patients will prefer to sleep or lie very quietly.
Tachypnoea
is an increased respiratory rate. In cats and dogs at rest, the respiration rate should be around 12-30 breaths per minute. Tachypnoea can be caused by heat, pain, exercise, excitability, poisons and some medications, as well as certain diseases and conditions
Bradypnoea
is decreased respiratory rate, and can be caused by poisons, metabolic alkalosis, sleep, depressed consciousness, and certain diseases and conditions.
Dyspnoea
is a difficulty in breathing and requires careful assessment by the veterinarian to diagnose the cause. Often if a patient is dyspnoeic, it is important to assess how their breathing affects their appearance. Is there more movement of the abdomen than normal? Is it inspiration or expiration? Does the animal extend its neck when its breaths? Does it have an anxious expression? Do the ribs appear to rise more fully or more quickly on inspiration than normal.
Apnoes
is the cessation of breathing entirely, and is seen often by nurses during anaesthetics (some medications can cause temporary apnoea, as can incorrect depth of anaesthesia).
Pyrexia
high body temperature fever
Occurs when the body has increased the regulatory set-point for body temperature, and is a metabolic change from within the body. This is usually caused by an infection process, and requires medical treatment, as well as active cooling
Hyperthermia
is an elevated body temperature due to failed thermoregulation. Hyperthermia occurs when the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipates (eg heatstroke). This is best managed with active cooling methods such as cold towels and fans
Hypothermia
Low body temperature
Can be caused by diseases states, shock, circulatory collapse, impending parturition, or recovery from general anaesthesia
Dog Body Temp Range
38.3 - 39.2
Cat Body Temp Range
38.2 - 38.6
Horse Body Temp Range
37.2 - 38.9
Ferret Body Temp Range
37.8 - 40
Domestic Rabbit Body Temp Range
38.5 - 40
Dog Heart Rate
70 - 140
