References
Factors contributing to fatalities in hospitalised rabbits
Abstract
The aim of this literature review is to examine the factors associated with fatalities in hospitalised rabbits. The review outlines the main issues relating to the high mortality rates in rabbits and explores methods which can be used to reduce these rates, allowing for an improved level of care to be provided for rabbits in practice. Anaesthesia, temperature, stress, anorexia and pain, all have the potental to increase mortality in rabbits, however it is possible to reduce their detrimental effects.
Despite the recent increase in the popularity of pet rabbits and the dramatic increase in their presentation for treatment in the veterinary surgery (Eatwell and Mancinelli, 2013), according to research studies they are at a higher risk of perioperative mortality than both canines and felines (Brodbelt et al, 2008). In the last 20 years there have been extensive publications regarding the care of hospitalised rabbits, it is important for the veterinary nurse to access the information available and to critically evaluate the conclusions made; this would allow the improvement of patient care through the use of the most up-to-date, evidence-based nursing care (Bloor, 2012). In order to reduce the instances of mortality in hospitalised rabbits, the veterinary nurse must develop an understanding of the factors commonly associated with this outcome and take preventative measures.
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