Title: Demonstrate preparation of a patient for surgery.
Course: Veterinary Science II (18105-II) > Section: Demonstrating Hospital Procedures

Preparation should include

- determining the patient has fasted before surgery
- identifying and obtaining equipment
- following hair removal protocols for selected surgical cases (e.g., soft tissue, orthopedic)
- applying various antiseptic scrubs and solutions
- potential complications resulting from surgical prep (e.g., clipper irritation/burn, chemical reaction)
- positioning patient for surgery, according to instructions provided.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What complications could arise if the skin is abraded during surgical preparation?
- When scrubbing a patient, what are the accepted patterns to use when applying solutions?
- What could be done for a particularly dirty animal that is having an elective procedure performed?
- What is the appropriate size clipper blade for surgical prep?
- What are the pros and cons of iodophors vs. chlorhexidine scrub solutions?
- What should be done to prevent loss of body heat during surgery?
- How would the “circulating” nurse prevent breaks in aseptic technique?
- Why is it important to provide a safe heat source for patients that undergo surgery?
- What type of restraint devices are available for patients?