Anaesthetic Emergencies

Many anaesthetic emergencies can be attributed to errors, either human or equipment errors, and many of these are avoidable. This module looks at some of the common reasons for accidents and how to minimise the risks of their occurrence.

Anaesthetic Emergencies involving respiratory problems may affect the respiratory system only or may lead to more serious or even fatal complications. This module examines those that are commonly seen in small animal practice and explains how to spot signs of impending difficulties.

Nearly all anaesthetised patients are prone to suffering from some degree of hypothermia. This is a serious anaesthetic emergency that, if untreated, can lead to cardiac arrest and death. The pathophysiology of hypothermia is explained in this module, which aims to improve understanding of how the body is affected and the effective measures that can be taken to prevent it.

As with hypothermia, many anaesthetised patients suffer from hypotension. Causes, together with signs of impending hypotension, are discussed in this module. Treatments involving fluids and drugs are also outlined.

Different types of shock are considered in this module, and signs of impending shock and hypovolaemia are explained. The physiology of circulatory shock is explored and the common fluids that are used to treat it are discussed.

This module is split into several sections. The first two parts deals with common cardiac arrhythmias, why they arise, how to detect them and the treatments that are used. Part 3 covers cardiac arrest and resuscitation. The current RECOVER guidelines are explained and information in this module relates to the RECOVER initiative. Basic and advanced life support are covered in this module. It should be noted that the information given concerning the RECOVER guidelines is current at the time of writing.