Internal Medicine Technician Rhinebeck Equine Highland, New York, United States
Disclosure(s):
Janine Baker, LVT: No financial relationships to disclose
This case report discusses the incidence of persistent lone atrial fibrillation (AF) in a Standardbred racehorse, and the subsequent successful cardioversion to sinus rhythm using quinidine sulfate. After briefly covering the pathophysiology of AF and the parameters necessary for cardioversion, the report discusses the history, workup, and diagnosis of the patient. The report focuses heavily on treatment and monitoring. Nursing skills discussed include maintaining venous access, telemetric electrocardiography setup and monitoring, noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitoring, nasogastric intubation, monitoring for adverse reactions, and preparing and understanding emergency drugs and protocols.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participant will be able to identify the most common cardiac arrhythmia in equines.
Upon completion, participant will be able to list the treatment options for equine atrial fibrillation and the prognosis for each.
Upon completion, participant will be able to describe a typical treatment protocol for equine atrial fibrillation using quinidine sulfate.
