Sample Preparation for Non-Surgical Procedures

Flashcards reviewing sample preparation techniques for non-surgical veterinary procedures.

What are some examples of non-surgical procedures?

Blood sample, re-dressing, nail clip, anal glands, vaccinations, urine sample, skin scrapes, IV catheter.

What are some key considerations for preparing the clinical environment?

Cleanliness (disinfected table, clear floor), adequate lighting and ventilation, appropriate room temperature, and manageable noise levels.

Why is patient handling important?

Ensuring the room is secure, transporting patients safely, using restraints when necessary, and having assistant availability.

What does patient preparation depend on?

The specific procedure and whether the patient is fully conscious or requires sedation.

What equipment is needed for a clinical examination?

Stethoscope, thermometer, lubrication, and oto-ophthalmoscope.

What are important steps in equipment preparation?

Checking equipment is working correctly (e.g., oto-opthalmoscope light bulb), ensuring thermometers are ready, and placing equipment conveniently.

What are considerations for patient preparation before a blood sample?

Fasting for 8-12 hours to reduce lipaemia, unless specific tests require feeding (e.g., bile acid stimulation).

How should the sample site be prepared for a blood sample?

Clip the sample site and cleanse the skin with hibiscrub followed by an alcohol swab.

What are common blood sample sites in dogs and cats?

Jugular (neck), cephalic (forelimb), and saphenous (hind limb).

What equipment is required for taking a blood sample?

Electric clippers, skin cleanser (e.g., chlorhexidine), gloves, surgical spirit, cotton wool, a needle of suitable size, an appropriate syringe, and appropriate blood containers.

What information should be included on a blood tube label?

Client's surname, patient's name, and date.

What are methods for collecting a urine sample?

Midstream collection, manual expression, catheterisation, and cystocentesis.

When is mid-stream collection best used?

For routine urinalysis

What are the benefits of using catheterization for urine sample collection?

It provides a sterile sample.

When is cystocentesis performed?

Involves the passage of a needle, through the abdominal wall and into the bladder. Much better to do under GA

Why would a faecal sample be taken?

diarrhoea, suspected endo-parasite infestation, suspected digestion impairment or metabolic disorder, melena (black faeces) / haematochezia (red blood in faeces), suspected bacterial infection, abdominal pain, constipation, weight loss, protect the general public and veterinary staff from zoonotic diseases

How should faecal samples be stored?

Containers should be sterile and airtight. Sufficient faeces (2-5g) to fill the container

What needs to be prepped before swabbing for bacteriology?

Topical and systemic antibiotic should be stopped at least three days prior to swabbing