Preoperative and postoperative care

An operation does not begin in the operating room and does not end when the last stitch is placed. Preparation before and care afterward are at least as important for the patient to get through well.

Before anesthesia the patient is prepared so the procedure is as safe as possible. This always follows the clinic's procedures and the veterinarian's instructions.

• 01Confirm patient, procedure and any fasting according to clinic rules.
• 02Assess general condition and note the initial condition as reference.
• 03Prepare the operating field and ensure access routes are in place.
• 04Prepare monitoring and anesthesia equipment and check it.
• 05Have resuscitation and emergency equipment clear and accessible.

An anaesthetised animal cannot look after itself. This means you keep an eye on vital signs protect the animal from cooling and ensure it is in a good position so breathing and blood supply are not hindered. Eyes are protected from drying and positioning is checked continuously.

The awakening phase is critical. The animal is still affected by anesthesia, may be disoriented and may have pain. It must be monitored closely, kept warm and calm and must not be left alone until it is stable.

• 01Keep the animal warm — anesthesia lowers body temperature.
• 02Monitor breathing, circulation and level of consciousness.
• 03Assess and relieve pain according to the veterinarian's prescription.
• 04Keep the animal in a calm, soft and monitored environment.
• 05Offer water and food when the animal is ready per instructions.

When the animal goes home your guidance to the owner is part of care. Explain clearly how the operation site is cared for how medicine is given what warning signs require contact and when the animal should come for check-up.

“The best operation can fail in recovery if no one is watching. The patient is yours until they are awake and stable.”