Prepare Patient For Surgery Flashcards
What is the starvation period for a cat, dog, ferret before surgery?
3-6 hours
Why should cats,dogs, ferrets not be starved longer than 6 hours before surgery?
More than 6 hours increase the incidence of gastro-intestinal reflux
Why should puppies or kittens under 12 weeks not be starved longer than 3 hours
Under 12 weeks old they are at risk of hypoglycaemia
What must owners be aware of in order to give informed consent according to RCVS code of conduct for veterinary surgeons?
They must be aware of the risks
What is consent?
Is the owners formal agreement to medical or surgical form of action. Should ideally include acknowledgment of an estimate of associated cost.
Does consent need to be in writing?
No but it is useful to have a signed document
Can a person who is not the owner give written consent?
Yes but they should sign the form as a ‘owner agent‘ and state there relationship to the owner.
Also the vet must be satisfied that the ‘authorised agent’ has the authority to do so
What should be done if changes have been made [i.e treatment add like clip nails] after the client has signed the consent form?
The changes should be installed by the client
How old does someone need to be to give consent?
Over 18years old. Under 18 can’t make legeally binding contracts, so should not be made liable for fees incurred - should get a parent or guardian to counter sign.
What should be done about consent when someone is deemed as lacking mental capacity.
Consent should be formed from someone close to person, ideally someone with power of attorney
When should water be withdrawn prior to surgery?
At time of premed to prevent dehydration prior to anaesthesia
With small animals they might drown in the bowel so when premed given.
Horses when they are moved into knock down box
Define pulmonary?
Relates to lungs
Define pulmonary acid aspiration syndrome?
When material from the oropharynx or GI tract into larynx or lower respiratory tract
What are the two greatest sources of post-operative wound contamination?
Skin and hairs
Skin should be prepped using?
Mechanical action - the scrubbing technique
Chemical action - scrub solution used
Define transient microorganisms?
Are easily removed through scrubbing and can almost be completely removed
Define resident microorganisms?
Are more complexed to remove as they have developed bio forms within the tissue
When might a foot bandage be needed during a surgery?
Orthopaedic op
