sedation and anaesthesia for resp patient

Question 1

T/F often general anaesthetic is safer than heavy sedation
WHY

Answer 1

True
because it ensures a secured airway (ET tube and oxygen)

Question 2

List 9 things that are good to consider when anaesthetising resp patient

Answer 2

Reduce stress and anxiety
Titrate/ calculate drug dose depending on case
Enrich O2 supply
ET intubation- have lots of sizes on hand
Careful monitoring (colour, SPO2%, capnography, RR and effort, ABP, ECG, temp)
‘Sighs’ and ventilatory support if appropriate
Judicious IVFT
close monitoring on recovery
Pain relief

Question 3

List 3 possible premed combos for a dog with resp disease

Answer 3

1= Dexmedetomidine* OR acepromazine AND methadone (IV or IM – dose will be different)
2= Dexmedetomidine* OR acepromazine AND butorphanol (if no painful procedure planned e.g. airway examination)
3= Opioid alone - if animal is in resp distress this may be the best thing to use

Question 4

Why can you use dexmedetomidine for a premed of an animal with resp disease despite being an alpha 2

Answer 4

Very small dose of this alpha 2- as at low dose give sedation, calming effects without CV negative effects

Question 5

What other drugs can be administered during premed to animals with resp disease

Answer 5

Omeprazole= especially brachys as more likely to regurg during anaesthesia
NSAIDs or paracetamol- to help with inflammation if not contraindicated
Xylometazoline to reduce decongested nares, terbutaline (can be inhaled to reduce swelling of airway) -

Question 6

List 5 pre med combos you could use in cat resp patient

Answer 6

1= Acepromazine AND opioid (butophanol or methadone)
2= Dexmedetomidine and opioid IM or IV (ASA II)
3= Ketamine AND midazolam especially if uncooporative, doesn’t cause problem with airway
4= Alfaxalone AND midazolam AND opioid (methadone or butorphanol) IM or- opioid been added in this to provide analgesia
5= Opioid alone if v compromised (methadone or butorphanol IM)