Session 8 Flashcards
Triage, neonates, pediatrics, geriatrics and euthanasia
What is the purpose of triage?
To organize patients based on the severity of their condition and ensure they receive timely treatment.
What conditions warrant immediate triage?
Lethargy, frequent/continued vomiting/diarrhea, active bleeding, seizures, respiratory distress (including heart conditions/severe asthma).
What traumatic events indicate the need for triage?
HIB, animal attacks, snakebites, burns, heatstroke, gunshot wounds, falls/crushing injuries.
Exposure to what substances requires triage?
Rat bait, poisons, antifreeze.
What are the age ranges for neonatal, infant, and pediatric stages?
Neonatal: birth to 2 weeks; Infant: 2-6 weeks; Pediatric: 6-12 weeks.
What are the characteristics of a healthy neonate?
Warm to the touch, vigorous and vocal, pink/moist mucous membranes, CRT < 2 seconds, respiration 15-35 breaths/min, clear lungs, HR 180-250 bpm, normal hydration, easily stimulated urination/defecation.
What are signs of illness in neonates?
Excessive crying, abnormal mentation, weight loss/failure to gain, poor muscle tone, pale/gray mucous membranes, panting, diarrhea, absence of gut sounds.
What are the key triage protocols for neonates?
Respiratory care, environmental temperature/humidity control, nutrition, and fluid requirements.
How is respiratory care provided to neonates?
Oxygen via mask/catheter, oxygen cage, sternal recumbency (turning hourly if recumbent).
How is the environment controlled for neonates?
Prevent hypothermia (heating pads, rice bags, etc., ideal temp 29-32°C, check frequently), maintain humidity (55-65%).
How is nutrition managed in neonates?
Correct hypothermia/hypoglycemia/poor perfusion first, record/monitor weight, assist elimination (every 2-4 hours), clean regularly. Address malnutrition (poor milk, crowding) – double birth weight by 12 days, supplement if needed.
How is dehydration assessed and treated in neonates?
Assess via mucous membranes (not skin turgor). Treat with oral glucose (non-dehydrated/normothermic), SQ fluids (slightly dehydrated), IV/IO fluids (severely ill).
How are fluids administered to neonates?
Stomach tube, AQ, IP, IV, IO. Warm fluids. Vitamin K if hemorrhage.
How are blood transfusions given to neonates?
IV, IO, IP. Warm to 35-37°C.
What are important aspects of pediatric hygiene?
Prevent external parasites (treat mother carefully), prevent hypothermia, prevent infections (clean, dry bedding, careful disinfectant use).
What are the steps for neonatal resuscitation?
Clear airway, ensure meconium passage, clear oral cavity/trachea, stimulate respiration, provide oxygen, dry/warm, encourage suckling (colostrum/glucose), drug therapy if needed.
How should neonates be fed?
Mother’s milk ideal. Replacer if needed (feed every 3 hours first week, every 4 hours after doubling weight). Warm milk (not microwaved). Use within 48 hours.
What are some key points about kitten feeding?
Average birth weight 90-110g, gain 10-15g/day, double weight by day 10. Specific feeding amounts based on weight. Feed in sternal recumbency, prevent overdistention. Wean at 6-8 weeks, feed 3x daily until 6 months.
What are some physical effects of aging?
Weight changes, skin/coat changes, footpad/nail changes, dental changes, digestion changes.
What are some physiological effects of aging?
Decreased cardiac output, decreased lung elasticity, increased respiratory infection risk, diminished kidney function, muscle/bone atrophy, CNS changes, sensory changes, altered immune function.
What are some behavioral changes seen in geriatric animals?
Reduced stress tolerance, aggression/destructive behavior, depression/anorexia, separation anxiety, excessive vocalization, house soiling, memory loss.
What are some nursing considerations for geriatric patients?
Gentle handling, awareness of age-related changes, schedule appointments during quiet times, adjust drug dosages (absorption changes), careful anesthesia (least cardiovascular effects).
What are the considerations for euthanasia?
Safety, efficiency of agent, rapid unconsciousness/death, no pain/distress/anxiety, reliability, age/species limitations.
What are acceptable methods of euthanasia?
Inhalation, IV injection (barbiturates), IP injection (neonates/exotics), intracardiac injection (anesthetized/comatose animals).
