Pre-anaesthetic assessment of the small animal patient (for Nurses)

Anaesthesia is a vital tool in small animal practice to facilitate diagnostic, corrective and curative procedures. Principles of appropriate drug choices and techniques are paramount to reduce peri-anaesthetic complications. But how do we come to make these choices? Pre-anaesthetic assessment of the individual patient in respect to signalment, disease status and procedure is invaluable in making these decisions. Pertinent history, and thorough physical examinations are the cornerstone to guide further relevant testing. Risk assessments and the factors that influence these risks, need to be identified and remedied where possible, prior to anaesthesia. Diagnostic testing with respect to blood work, electrocardiograms, and imaging are point of care tools which can add significant information to assist in our quest for the most appropriate peri-anaesthetic plan.

The Australian Veterinary Nurse and Technician (AVNAT) Regulatory Council has allocated (1) AVNAT CPD point to this continuing education activity.