Description
Infusion therapy is a routine part of veterinary practice, but have we become too accustomed to the interruptions that come with it? From recurring pump alarms and occluded lines to patient interference, problems with infusion delivery can become so familiar that we simply accept them as part of everyday practice. But should we?
In this interactive, case-based webinar, we'll explore the clinical and practical challenges of fluid therapy, from selecting appropriate fluids and adapting treatment plans to ensuring reliable delivery. Through three realistic scenarios, our expert panel will discuss clinical decision-making, common infusion problems and how equipment choice, set-up and nursing care can make a difference.
Drawing on recent research into veterinary professionals' experiences of infusion equipment, we'll also consider whether recurring problems are being unnecessarily accepted as normal, and what practices can do to address them.
With audience polls, panel discussion and live Q&A, this session will encourage vets and veterinary nurses to take a fresh look at a familiar aspect of patient care.
Learning Objectives
- Consider the key factors influencing fluid selection and planning according to the individual patient’s clinical needs.
- Distinguish between replacement and maintenance fluid requirements, and recognise how these may change during hospitalisation.
- Recognise the importance of reassessing and adapting a fluid therapy plan according to changes in the patient’s clinical status, ongoing fluid losses and response to treatment.
- Apply a systematic approach to troubleshooting interrupted infusion delivery, distinguishing between patient/catheter, line, set-up and equipment-related factors.
- Evaluate how patient needs, the veterinary environment and equipment choice can affect successful infusion delivery, including patient movement and interference, line management, equipment design and recurring alarms or interruptions.
