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Manual Techniques for Anaesthesia Monitoring (view source)
Revision as of 10:41, 8 September 2010
, 10:41, 8 September 2010no edit summary
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==Introduction==
==Introduction==
Although monitors are becoming more available in veterinary practices, the most readily available source of monitoring during an anaesthetic is the veterinary surgeon, or veterinary nurse. Using our senses, it is possible to get a good indication of cardiovascular and respiratory system status, an idea about the temperature of the patient and most importantly we are the best monitors for depth of anaesthesia.
Although monitors are becoming more available in veterinary practices, the most readily available source of monitoring during an anaesthetic is the veterinary surgeon, or veterinary nurse. Using our senses, it is possible to get a good indication of cardiovascular and respiratory system status, an idea about the temperature of the patient and most importantly we are the best monitors for depth of anaesthesia.
===Respiratory Rate===
===Respiratory Rate===
Respiratory rate can be easily monitored and is important in assessing anaesthesia as if an inhalation agent is being used then it is important to check that the patient is breathing sufficiently to be receiving and exhaling the anaesthetic agent. If the patient is too light then usually there is an increase in respiratory rate, where as if the patient is too deep then there is usually a decrease in rate.
Respiratory rate can be easily monitored and is important in assessing anaesthesia as if an inhalation agent is being used then it is important to check that the patient is breathing sufficiently to be receiving and exhaling the anaesthetic agent. If the patient is too light then usually there is an increase in respiratory rate, where as if the patient is too deep then there is usually a decrease in rate.
Other parameters include jaw tone, movement and pain response.
Other parameters include jaw tone, movement and pain response.
During auscultation, or just when listening to a patient, abnormal sounds may also be detected.
During auscultation, or just when listening to a patient, abnormal sounds may also be detected.
==Temperature==
One of the biggest concerns with anaesthesia is the risk of hypothermia to patients. It is therefore important to continually monitor the temperature of the patient throughout the procedure as well as post operatively. This can be done either manually using a thermometer rectally, or using a thermometer probe that can be found on some monitors placed either rectally or down the oesophagus if the procedure permits.