wk 9 Fluid Therapy and IV Management in Veterinary Practice

Disconnecting a Patient from an IV Fluid Pump

• Stopping the Pump:

  • Push 'Stop' or 'Hold' button on the fluid pump.
  • Turn off the pump.

• Clamping the IV Line:

  • Clamp the IV fluid line both in front of and behind the connection that will be disconnected.
  • Safety Note: Avoid letting fluids run in an open line to prevent hazardous medication additives from flowing too quickly.
  • Examples: KCL (potassium chloride), dextrose, insulin, analgesics.

• Disconnecting the Line:

  • Disconnect the line and cap or place a needle on the remaining portion connected to the fluid bag to maintain cleanliness.
  • Cap or use a syringe filled with saline on the line connected to the patient.

• Transporting the Animal:

  • If walking a dog or transporting a cat, tape the disconnected line securely to the patient’s leg if disconnected beyond the t-port.

• Checking IV Catheter Patency Before Reconnection:

  • Flush the IV catheter to ensure it is patent (able to let fluid flow).
  • If there is difficulty flushing, or if the limb feels swollen, notify a technician.

• Reconnecting the IV Lines:

  • Once checked, reconnect the fluid lines and unclamp.

• Restarting the Pump:

  • Turn the power back on and restart the fluid pump.
  • Fluid pumps should restart at the last recorded rate. Always verify the rate against the fluid administration sheet, and report any discrepancies to a technician.

Fluid Therapy in Small Animals: Role of the Veterinary Technician

• Importance of Fluid Therapy:

  • Administering fluids is critical for optimal veterinary care.
  • Understanding fluid types and administration methods is essential for technicians.

• Catheter Placement and Care:

  • The veterinarian prescribes fluid type/rate, while technicians carry them out via IV catheters, typically placed in:
  • Cephalic vein (most common).
  • Saphenous vein.
  • Jugular vein.
  • Use the largest diameter catheter possible for quicker fluid administration.

• Catheter Maintenance:

  • Flush catheters with heparinized saline every four hours if not in use to prevent clotting.
  • Regularly check insertion site for redness, swelling, or discharge.
  • An unattended catheter may cause thrombophlebitis (vein inflammation and clot formation).

• Fluid Administration Protocols:

  • Swab catheter ports with alcohol before administration.
  • Always cap IV lines and maintain sterility during disconnection.

• IV Fluid Pumps vs. Drip Lines:

  • IV pumps provide controlled fluid delivery per hour.
  • In absence of pumps, fluids can be administered via IV drip lines (micro-drip: 60 drops/ml; macro-drip: 10 or 15 drops/ml).

• Monitoring Fluid Administration:

  • Track fluid levels in containers.
  • Patient positioning affects fluid delivery (monitor cat’s position to ensure consistent flow).

• Signs of Overhydration:

  • Monitor for symptoms:
  • Serous nasal discharge, restlessness, tachycardia, coughing, tachypnea, etc.
  • Weigh patients daily (2.2 lb change = 1 L fluid change).
  • Report any concerning symptoms to a veterinarian.

• Management of Fluid Overload:

  • Discontinue fluids and may administer diuretics (e.g., furosemide) if necessary.
  • Provide supplemental oxygen for dyspneic patients.

Conclusion

• Role of Veterinary Technicians:
  • Vital in monitoring and delivering fluid therapy, which is essential for patient survival and proper hydration.
  • Diligence in care and treatment plan execution is paramount for successful outcomes in veterinary patients.