How to manage infection control in the operating theatre

A common complication following surgery in all species is infection of the surgical site which leads to increased morbidity and in some cases mortality. Not only does the patient incur more stress, but it is also distressing for the owners and the cost of treatment is often increased significantly when dealing with surgical site infections (SSI). Prevention of SSI is by no means possible all of the time due to the many factors which contribute to development of SSI, however it is essential to try to limit development of SSI throughout the surgical procedures performed and during the perioperative period where possible. This article focuses on the preparation of the patient for surgery and infection control in the operating theatre, and highlights the important areas, such as hand hygiene, which can be improved to try to limit the spread of infection within the operating theatre.

Feline hypertension: an overview

High blood pressure (hypertension) is an common problem in geriatric cats. Routine measurement of blood pressure can contribute to optimal clinical care. Veterinary nurses play an important role in measurement of blood pressure in routine clinical practice.Successful measurement of blood pressure in cats requires attention to detail using a standardized protocol such as that outlined in this article. Veterinary nurses are well placed to apply such a standard procedure, thereby obtaining consistent and accurate results.Hypertension is often a hidden condition, masked by cats' incredible coping abilities. Blindness or hyphaema may be the first sign noticed by the owner. Even though blind cats can lead a relatively normal life, they often have an underlying disease associated with hypertension, such as chronic kidney disease and/or hyperthyroidism. However, some cats may have no underlying diseases detectable and their hypertension would be classified as idiopathic. Treatment using amlodipine besylate, a calcium channel blocker, has been shown to work most effectively in cats with hypertension.In the last few decades knowledge of hypertension has improved, however, many older cats are still not routinely having their blood pressure measured. The veterinary nurse is often under utilized in this area. Veterinary nurses should take a pro-active role in measuring blood pressure in cats, within the consulting room, with their owners present. It is only by performing routine, pre-emptive blood pressure measurement in the absence of clinical signs that development of end-organ damage, such as blindness, will be prevented.

Feline hypertension: an overview

High blood pressure (hypertension) is an common problem in geriatric cats. Routine measurement of blood pressure can contribute to optimal clinical care. Veterinary nurses play an important role in measurement of blood pressure in routine clinical practice.Successful measurement of blood pressure in cats requires attention to detail using a standardized protocol such as that outlined in this article. Veterinary nurses are well placed to apply such a standard procedure, thereby obtaining consistent and accurate results.Hypertension is often a hidden condition, masked by cats' incredible coping abilities. Blindness or hyphaema may be the first sign noticed by the owner. Even though blind cats can lead a relatively normal life, they often have an underlying disease associated with hypertension, such as chronic kidney disease and/or hyperthyroidism. However, some cats may have no underlying diseases detectable and their hypertension would be classified as idiopathic. Treatment using amlodipine besylate, a calcium channel blocker, has been shown to work most effectively in cats with hypertension.In the last few decades knowledge of hypertension has improved, however, many older cats are still not routinely having their blood pressure measured. The veterinary nurse is often under utilized in this area. Veterinary nurses should take a pro-active role in measuring blood pressure in cats, within the consulting room, with their owners present. It is only by performing routine, pre-emptive blood pressure measurement in the absence of clinical signs that development of end-organ damage, such as blindness, will be prevented.

Educating veterinary nurses for professional competence

Professional competence for veterinary nurses today is not just a matter of being skilled in technical tasks such as processing a blood sample or placing an intravenous catheter. As members of a profession which is evolving rapidly in a changing world, it is vital that veterinary nurses also possess the personal attributes necessary for developing effective professional relationships. With the advances in veterinary medicine and its accompanying technology, educators too must not lose sight of the ‘human side’ of veterinary nursing; educating caring professionals as opposed to trained technicians. Therefore, it is important that a veterinary nurse model of professional competence emphasizes the emotional aspects of their practice as well as the technical skills and an ability to problem-solve. Veterinary nursing/veterinary technology curricula internationally have embraced this ethos. Hence the development of personal attributes such as empathy is regarded as pivotal in producing veterinary nurses who are able to meet the expectations of employers, clients and society today. This paper will explore some of the personal attributes that are integral to the veterinary nurses' professional competence and the implications this has for veterinary nursing curricula.

Educating veterinary nurses for professional competence

Professional competence for veterinary nurses today is not just a matter of being skilled in technical tasks such as processing a blood sample or placing an intravenous catheter. As members of a profession which is evolving rapidly in a changing world, it is vital that veterinary nurses also possess the personal attributes necessary for developing effective professional relationships. With the advances in veterinary medicine and its accompanying technology, educators too must not lose sight of the ‘human side’ of veterinary nursing; educating caring professionals as opposed to trained technicians. Therefore, it is important that a veterinary nurse model of professional competence emphasizes the emotional aspects of their practice as well as the technical skills and an ability to problem-solve. Veterinary nursing/veterinary technology curricula internationally have embraced this ethos. Hence the development of personal attributes such as empathy is regarded as pivotal in producing veterinary nurses who are able to meet the expectations of employers, clients and society today. This paper will explore some of the personal attributes that are integral to the veterinary nurses' professional competence and the implications this has for veterinary nursing curricula.

Veterinary nursing in Norway

Quality assurance of education abroad is the reason the inter-European collaboration on aspects such as curricula and examination systems is very important. It is also the reason why the Norwegian Veterinary Nurses programme strives for involvement in European projects that have a common aim in improving education of veterinary nurses across Europe.

Wound healing and management of open wounds

This article will look at recognizing the different stages of wound healing, the different types of open wounds and how they are classified. It will discuss principles of wound management, the lavage and debridement of wounds, and the nurse's role in these techniques. There will be discussion on the numerous types of wound dressings available, along with advancements in wound management.

The changing face of the veterinary nursing community

The veterinary nursing profession is undergoing a dramatic shift in the way we approach our knowledge and development. Advancements in communication have enabled the emergence of a global veterinary nursing community where we have instant access to a vast array of information as well as greater connectedness with colleagues around the world. Now more than ever, communication is at the forefront of our development as a profession not only within the wider veterinary community, but also between disciplines. As veterinary nurses become specialized, it is becoming more important for us to skillfully facilitate delivery of patient care across multiple disciplines. In this issue, Liz Branscombe explores how we as a profession can enhance our communication between disciplines by utilizing interprofessional practice (p119–122), a system of integrated care well established by our human healthcare counterparts. Here is an excellent example of how we can look outside our own profession and learn from the wider healthcare community; in doing so, we are tapping a diverse and experienced wealth of knowledge that we can use to improve our own professional practice.

Like owner like dog

Once, when my son and I were walking our jolly puppy, we found ourselves behind another dog walker whose terrier was seized by aggressive fury. It was snarling and snapping at us.

The changing face of the veterinary nursing community

The veterinary nursing profession is undergoing a dramatic shift in the way we approach our knowledge and development. Advancements in communication have enabled the emergence of a global veterinary nursing community where we have instant access to a vast array of information as well as greater connectedness with colleagues around the world. Now more than ever, communication is at the forefront of our development as a profession not only within the wider veterinary community, but also between disciplines. As veterinary nurses become specialized, it is becoming more important for us to skillfully facilitate delivery of patient care across multiple disciplines. In this issue, Liz Branscombe explores how we as a profession can enhance our communication between disciplines by utilizing interprofessional practice (p119–122), a system of integrated care well established by our human healthcare counterparts. Here is an excellent example of how we can look outside our own profession and learn from the wider healthcare community; in doing so, we are tapping a diverse and experienced wealth of knowledge that we can use to improve our own professional practice.

How to manage infection control in the operating theatre

A common complication following surgery in all species is infection of the surgical site which leads to increased morbidity and in some cases mortality. Not only does the patient incur more stress, but it is also distressing for the owners and the cost of treatment is often increased significantly when dealing with surgical site infections (SSI). Prevention of SSI is by no means possible all of the time due to the many factors which contribute to development of SSI, however it is essential to try to limit development of SSI throughout the surgical procedures performed and during the perioperative period where possible. This article focuses on the preparation of the patient for surgery and infection control in the operating theatre, and highlights the important areas, such as hand hygiene, which can be improved to try to limit the spread of infection within the operating theatre.

Egg yolk coelomitis in a North Island brown kiwi

In December 2009 at Wellington Zoo a female North Island brown kiwi was diagnosed and treated for egg yolk coelomitis.The following article will discuss how it was discovered and diagnosed, using computed topography and radiographs. Also discussed is the treatment for this condition, which involved a laparotomy to remove the yolk in the coelomic cavity. The reason this occurs will be discussed and the complications that are associated with egg yolk coelomitis.

Egg yolk coelomitis in a North Island brown kiwi

In December 2009 at Wellington Zoo a female North Island brown kiwi was diagnosed and treated for egg yolk coelomitis.The following article will discuss how it was discovered and diagnosed, using computed topography and radiographs. Also discussed is the treatment for this condition, which involved a laparotomy to remove the yolk in the coelomic cavity. The reason this occurs will be discussed and the complications that are associated with egg yolk coelomitis.

Chronic pruritus in dogs: a systematic approach to diagnosis

Pruritus is a common reason for visiting the veterinary surgery and pruritic dogs can present as challenging cases to solve. There are many possible causes of pruritus and a systematic approach can help clinicians to identify the cause in most cases. This article attempts to present a simplified and logical approach to diagnosis and show how veterinary nurses can play a vital role in coming to a diagnosis.

Chronic pruritus in dogs: a systematic approach to diagnosis

Pruritus is a common reason for visiting the veterinary surgery and pruritic dogs can present as challenging cases to solve. There are many possible causes of pruritus and a systematic approach can help clinicians to identify the cause in most cases. This article attempts to present a simplified and logical approach to diagnosis and show how veterinary nurses can play a vital role in coming to a diagnosis.

Meeting the needs of patient–interprofessional practice

This article will examine the concept of interprofessional practice (IPP) and how this approach to patient care has been developed within the human healthcare professions. Furthermore it will consider the benefits and constraints of collaborative working and whether the veterinary and allied professions can adopt the processes of IPP successfully within the veterinary setting.

Wound healing and management of open wounds

This article will look at recognizing the different stages of wound healing, the different types of open wounds and how they are classified. It will discuss principles of wound management, the lavage and debridement of wounds, and the nurse's role in these techniques. There will be discussion on the numerous types of wound dressings available, along with advancements in wound management.

Egg yolk coelomitis in a North Island brown kiwi

In December 2009 at Wellington Zoo a female North Island brown kiwi was diagnosed and treated for egg yolk coelomitis.The following article will discuss how it was discovered and diagnosed, using computed topography and radiographs. Also discussed is the treatment for this condition, which involved a laparotomy to remove the yolk in the coelomic cavity. The reason this occurs will be discussed and the complications that are associated with egg yolk coelomitis.

How to manage infection control in the operating theatre

A common complication following surgery in all species is infection of the surgical site which leads to increased morbidity and in some cases mortality. Not only does the patient incur more stress, but it is also distressing for the owners and the cost of treatment is often increased significantly when dealing with surgical site infections (SSI). Prevention of SSI is by no means possible all of the time due to the many factors which contribute to development of SSI, however it is essential to try to limit development of SSI throughout the surgical procedures performed and during the perioperative period where possible. This article focuses on the preparation of the patient for surgery and infection control in the operating theatre, and highlights the important areas, such as hand hygiene, which can be improved to try to limit the spread of infection within the operating theatre.

Educating veterinary nurses for professional competence

Professional competence for veterinary nurses today is not just a matter of being skilled in technical tasks such as processing a blood sample or placing an intravenous catheter. As members of a profession which is evolving rapidly in a changing world, it is vital that veterinary nurses also possess the personal attributes necessary for developing effective professional relationships. With the advances in veterinary medicine and its accompanying technology, educators too must not lose sight of the ‘human side’ of veterinary nursing; educating caring professionals as opposed to trained technicians. Therefore, it is important that a veterinary nurse model of professional competence emphasizes the emotional aspects of their practice as well as the technical skills and an ability to problem-solve. Veterinary nursing/veterinary technology curricula internationally have embraced this ethos. Hence the development of personal attributes such as empathy is regarded as pivotal in producing veterinary nurses who are able to meet the expectations of employers, clients and society today. This paper will explore some of the personal attributes that are integral to the veterinary nurses' professional competence and the implications this has for veterinary nursing curricula.

The changing face of the veterinary nursing community

The veterinary nursing profession is undergoing a dramatic shift in the way we approach our knowledge and development. Advancements in communication have enabled the emergence of a global veterinary nursing community where we have instant access to a vast array of information as well as greater connectedness with colleagues around the world. Now more than ever, communication is at the forefront of our development as a profession not only within the wider veterinary community, but also between disciplines. As veterinary nurses become specialized, it is becoming more important for us to skillfully facilitate delivery of patient care across multiple disciplines. In this issue, Liz Branscombe explores how we as a profession can enhance our communication between disciplines by utilizing interprofessional practice (p119–122), a system of integrated care well established by our human healthcare counterparts. Here is an excellent example of how we can look outside our own profession and learn from the wider healthcare community; in doing so, we are tapping a diverse and experienced wealth of knowledge that we can use to improve our own professional practice.

Chronic pruritus in dogs: a systematic approach to diagnosis

Pruritus is a common reason for visiting the veterinary surgery and pruritic dogs can present as challenging cases to solve. There are many possible causes of pruritus and a systematic approach can help clinicians to identify the cause in most cases. This article attempts to present a simplified and logical approach to diagnosis and show how veterinary nurses can play a vital role in coming to a diagnosis.

Wound healing and management of open wounds

This article will look at recognizing the different stages of wound healing, the different types of open wounds and how they are classified. It will discuss principles of wound management, the lavage and debridement of wounds, and the nurse's role in these techniques. There will be discussion on the numerous types of wound dressings available, along with advancements in wound management.

Feline hypertension: an overview

High blood pressure (hypertension) is an common problem in geriatric cats. Routine measurement of blood pressure can contribute to optimal clinical care. Veterinary nurses play an important role in measurement of blood pressure in routine clinical practice.Successful measurement of blood pressure in cats requires attention to detail using a standardized protocol such as that outlined in this article. Veterinary nurses are well placed to apply such a standard procedure, thereby obtaining consistent and accurate results.Hypertension is often a hidden condition, masked by cats' incredible coping abilities. Blindness or hyphaema may be the first sign noticed by the owner. Even though blind cats can lead a relatively normal life, they often have an underlying disease associated with hypertension, such as chronic kidney disease and/or hyperthyroidism. However, some cats may have no underlying diseases detectable and their hypertension would be classified as idiopathic. Treatment using amlodipine besylate, a calcium channel blocker, has been shown to work most effectively in cats with hypertension.In the last few decades knowledge of hypertension has improved, however, many older cats are still not routinely having their blood pressure measured. The veterinary nurse is often under utilized in this area. Veterinary nurses should take a pro-active role in measuring blood pressure in cats, within the consulting room, with their owners present. It is only by performing routine, pre-emptive blood pressure measurement in the absence of clinical signs that development of end-organ damage, such as blindness, will be prevented.