Hypovolemic Shock

It is important to remember that many of the treatments associated with HSAs are only meant to prolong survival, and not to cure the disease. It is important to ensure good quality of life is achieved for these patients.
Post-operatively, the patient should be closely monitored. Routine checks of temperature, heart rate, respiration rate (TPR), mucous membrane color and capillary refill time should be performed. Bandage changes may be necessary, pain must be managed and blood work should be performed to evaluate electrolytes and complete blood counts. The incision site must be kept clean and dry, including preventing the patient from licking the incision, to prevent secondary infections. An E-collar may be needed. These patients are prone to hemorrhage from the lesions, leading to hypovolemic shock, hemorrhagic anemia, iron loss, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), hemoabdomen, hemothorax, pericardial effusion, electrolyte and fluid loss (Tilley, & Smith, 2015). Patients in hypovolemic shock can present in any stage of shock. Oxygen delivery, placement of an intravenous catheter (unless severe respiratory distress or cardiogenic shock) and intravenous fluids, including crystalloids and colloids, are the primary steps

It is vital to know the route of excretion of the drug, for example, if the drug is excreted through the urinary system, it is important that the animal’s urine is collected and discarded properly. Fecal matter should be discarded properly immediately, and not left to sit outside. Gloves need to be worn when handling any excretions/secretions from the patient. These drugs can be cardiotoxic and cardiac function should be evaluated prior to, during and after any treatments. They can also cause hemorrhagic cystitis, therefore urinalyses should be performed