Small animal emergencies and critical care

Question 1

What should be initially assessed in a patient?

Answer 1

• Airway, Breathing, Circulation – if there is not then need to start CPR
• Mentation: dull, collapsed, excited, panicked, seizing
• What is the presenting problem/problems?
• Prioritise most life-threatening problem

Question 2

Which diagnostic tests should be used initially?

Answer 2

• Bloods - PCV/TP, electrolytes, glucose
• Screening/imaging
• Radiographs

Question 3

How should fluid therapy be administered?

Answer 3

Bolus technique
10-20ml/kg over 10 minutes
Reassess

Question 4

Which drugs can be considered for analgesia?

Answer 4

NSAIDs
Opioids
Local 
Alpha 2 agonists 
NMDA antagonists 
Paracetamol

Question 5

Which drugs are the go-to in emergencies?

Answer 5

Opioids

Question 6

Which drugs are not good in emergencies for animals that have had vomiting/diarrhoea, hypovolaemia, dehydrated, in shock

Answer 6

NSAIDs

Question 7

Which drugs can be administered for sedation - for minor procedures such as diagnostic imaging

Answer 7

Alpha-2 agonists
Acepromazine
Benzodiazepines 
Ketamine 
Opioids

Question 8

What are some commonly used induction agents?

Answer 8

Propofol
Alfaxalone
Ketamine
Benzodiazepines

Question 9

What are some commonly used maintenance agents?

Answer 9

Isoflurane, sevoflurane
Propofol
Alfaxalone

Question 10

The depth of sedation/anaesthesia is can be easily monitored by monitoring?

Answer 10

Pupil position
Palpebral response
Jaw tone

Question 11

What is the action of vasopressors?

Answer 11

Cause vasoconstriction

Question 12

What are the important factors when dealing with emergencies?

Answer 12

Planning
Preparation
Teamwork

Question 13

How can blood pressure be supported during anaesthesia?

Answer 13

• Fluids
• Positive inotropes to increased heart contractility e.g. dopamine
• Vasopressors