Secondary Survey

Question 1

Secondary Survey

Answer 1

• Done after primary survey and initial stabilisation
• Systematic body system review of whole patient for a more detailed approach
• Get clinical hx from owner

Question 2

IV access

Answer 2

• Use largest gauge catheter possible for the vein (incase needing crystalloids or blood products)
• Blood draw done after IVC placed
• Place central venous catheter in jugular if unable to get peripheral vein (lateral recumbency, check coagulation first)

Question 3

Short Term O2 Therapy

Answer 3

• Sedation if in respiratory compromise

- Thoracocentesis may be needed with pleural space disease

Question 4

Toxin Decontamination - General/Emesis

Answer 4

• Can depend on severity
• Dogs presenting within 4h of toxin ingestion can be made to vomit (apomorphine on MM)
• Activated charcoal may be given orally to absorb remaining toxin
• Use antiemetic after

Question 5

Toxin Decontamination - Gastric Lavage

Answer 5

• Used if altered mentation, collapse, laryngeal paralysis
• Placed under GA with an orogastic tube into the stomach and lavaged with room temp water
• Can administer activated charcoal
• If metaldehyde toxicity (snail bait), will also need colonic lavage

Question 6

Active Haemorrhage

Answer 6

• Apply pressure with absorbed gauze swabs
• When saturated apply more on top
• Can apply loose bandage but monitor for strike through

Question 7

Analgesia

Answer 7

• First aid requirement
• Determine stability of patient before administering analgesic
• Use what corresponds with presentation eg do not give respiratory depressor if having respiratory difficulties
• Opioids can affect neurological assessment