A comprehensive individualized anesthetic plan will minimize
perioperative morbidity and optimize perioperative conditions.
Monitoring, the ability to discern normal from abnormal, and
expedient intervention are critical to ensure that potentially reversible
problems do not become irreversible. Vigilance and patient
support must be maintained during the recovery period.
Successful anesthetic management requires trained, observant
team members who understand the clinical pharmacology
and physiologic adaptations of the patient undergoing anesthetic
procedures, as well as the use of anesthetic and monitoring equipment.
Staff must be able to assess abnormal patient responses quickly
and respond efficiently, by being familiar with the expected responses
seen with different anesthetic drugs and with the changes seen
in the phases and/or depth of general anesthesia. Provide training
and review procedures with staff upon hiring, at regular intervals,
and after adverse events occur, as part of routine morbidity and
mortality discussions.
Anesthesia and anesthetic drugs continually evolve with advances
in pharmacology and technology. Numerous anesthesia continuing
education opportunities exist, and periodically refreshing
your anesthesia knowledge is mandatory. Referral to a board certified
veterinary anesthesiologist should be considered for complex
cases that are outside of a practitioner’s comfort zone