Practical Assessment of Volume Status in Daily Practice

Fluid therapy is a critical component when treating sick veterinary patients. Determining a fluid therapy plan starts with making an accurate assessment of the patient ′s hydration and blood volume in order to determine the animal′s need for fluids. Having an accurate assessment is paramount to avoid extremes of fluid therapy -- providing too much fluid or not enough -- as both circumstances can lead to detrimental effects. In order to clearly discuss these ca ses, it is important to understand specific terminology: dehydration, hypovolemia and hypervolemia.
Source: Topics in Companion Animal Medicine - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research