CPA general knowledge
What happens during CPA?
The heart of the animal stops beating and breathing ceases
What are external chest compressions?
External chest compressions are done in veterinary patients by pressing on the chest externally to generate blood flow.
What are the critical functions of the respiratory tract?
Oxygenation (getting o2 into arterial blood)
Ventilation (removing co2 from venous blood)
What is a red code?
DNR
What clients should we ask about CPR/DNR?
ALL PATIENTS in care.
Sedations, surgeries, hospitalizations
What is the only way to possibly reverse CPA?
CPR
What is cardiac massage?
Open-chest CPR (OCCPR) is an alternative approach to external chest compressions in which the chest is opened surgically and the heart is massaged directly.
What are the three methods of breathing for your patient?
1.PPV through ETT
2. Tight fitting mask
3. Mouth to nose breaths
What is a yellow code?
Close chested CPR
What are the three main questions to ask an O when pt presents unresponsive?
Any recent health problems?
How long have they been unresponsive?
Has your pet received any medications or toxins?
Do most animals stop breathing first or have the heart beat stop?
Most experience respiratory arrest meaning that they stop breathing first then due to lack of oxygenation the heart stops beating
**Ideally** how should a barrel chested dog be positioned for CPR?
Dog in dorsal, compressions happening eternally
What type of breathing is generally associated with cardiac arrest?
Agonal breathing
What is a green code?
Open chest CPR
What three discussion points to have with a client while PT is unresponsive?
Options for CPR (CPR/DNR?)
Costs
Potential prognosis- young healthy pt vs elderly pt with ongoing health concerns
What are the two components (goals) of basic life saving?
Generating blood flow
Breathing
What is more successful? Cardiac massage or External compressions
Cardiac massage
Is atonal breathing a positive ir negative sign in CPA? WHY?
Positive- agonal breaths suggest respiratory centres in the brain are still functioning and the pt has not been deprived of perfusion for an excessive period of time
When is the only time open chested CPR should be offered?
When post arrest care is available in practice or a nearby referral clinic
What to do when you do not know owners wishes and PT is in CPA?
Initiate close chest CPR while owner is being contacted