Page 94 - BSAVA Guide to Pain Management in Small Animal Practice

6 | Physical methods used to alleviate pain: nursing considerations

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(ii) (iii)

(ai) (iv) (v) (vi)

(b) (c) (di)
here are a variety of harnesses on the market. It is important to nd one that
3 provides the best t and support for the individual patient s needs and any
conformational challenges. (ai–vi) Pet Support Suit™. (b,c) Examples of harnesses in
use. (di) An improvised device using two slip leads, padding and cohesive bandage to
form (dii) a harness for the hind legs. This is great in ambulatory paretic patients that are
weak and wobbly in the rear legs. It helps prevent the back legs crossing when walking, (dii)
splaying out, knuckling over or stumbling.

absorbent dressings to capture excessive
exudate from wounds, and by wiping away
saliva igure 6. , food and water that may
collect around Elizabethan collars or other
movement-restricting devices.
Any friction or shearing of integument across
a surface will increase the likelihood of skin
breakdown. This is especially relevant when
considering both moving patients and the type
of bedding provided. Interestingly, the use of
doughnut-type cushions and devices is not
recommended. They may increase pressure
where the doughnut ring sits, potentially causing
further skin breakdown. Additionally, the
A kennel padded out using a mattress and
pillows for the recumbent patient to be able doughnut may become displaced and increase
to lean against and remain upright. risk to areas of otherwise una ected skin.
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