3 pearls for stabilizing and monitoring critical patients

Getty ImagesThe first few steps we take as technicians and veterinarians can be vital in providing lifesaving stabilization as well as obtaining diagnostic information, says CVC educator Kari Santoro Beer, DVM, DACVECC. Here are three quick takeaways from her CVC session.

Tip 1. In cases of acute hemorrhage, remember that patients will often have a normal to slightly high packed cell volume and low total solids concentration.

Tip 2. Recognize that the pulse oximeter is a finicky tool. If the patient's pulse rate isn't matching or isn't reading, the blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) level is likely not accurate. If you can't get a reading, don't let that change your plan.  

Tip 3. If you're using the oscillometric method to measure a patient's blood pressure, check out the heart rate. If it doesn't match, the reading probably isn't right!

Cuff size matters. It should be 40% of limb circumference for dogs, 30% for cats.

Too small = falsely high blood pressure. Too big = falsely low.

Bonus audience tip: Can't remember this? Here's help. Tight cuffs are like tight pants. If they're too tight your blood pressure will go up.