Module 6: Emergency Protocols & Treatments

An equine veterinary assistant or intern should be able to competently prepare for any equine emergency that arises, such as lacerations, colic, or difficult births. This course provides knowledge of triage instruments and supplies, stabilizing care and variations within emergency issues. 

Course Outline

Section 1 - Colic
Colic can be caused by a wide variety of internal and/or external factors. The treatment for most colics is similar. this section will review the items needed to treat a colics, explanation of the importance of each, demonstration of how they are used and their purpose. 

Section 2 - Choke
Choke can be caused by a wide variety of internal and/or external factors. The treatment for choke can differ between each patient, along with the severity of the choke. This section will review the items needed to treat a choke, explanation of the importance of each, demonstration of how they are used and their purpose. 

Section 3 - Respiratory Issues
There are multiple causes of respiratory issues in horses. Some are caused by disease, while others can be caused by allergens or outside contaminants. Respiratory issues must be treated immediately or can leave the horse with lifelong issues and differ between each patient. This section will review the items needed to treat a respiratory problems, explanation of the importance of each, demonstration of how they are used and their purpose. 

Section 4 - Lacerations
Horses can become injured many ways, causing open wounds. When this happens, sutures are often required to treat the laceration. This section will review different types of lacerations and common locations, preparation of the wound for suturing and additional information about tissue health in regards to healing. 

Section 5 - Ophthalmic Injuries
Ophthalmic injuries, or eye injuries can be a daunting injury to treat and it is vital to be sure in the diagnosis of the issue or injury in order to not cause further damage to the eye by treating it incorrectly. This section will review the most common types of injuries, diagnostic information and the purpose of the often long treatment protocol. 

Section 6 - Tying Up (Rhabdomyolysis)
Exertional Rhabdomyolysis, or Tying Up, as it is often referred to, is the breakdown and damage of muscles in the horse. There are multiple causes to this illness and still many unanswered questions in the equine medical community. This section will review possible causes, treatments and additional helpful information regarding possible breed/genetic links to the illness. 

Section 7 - Dystocia
When a mare is giving birth, there are multiple complications that can arise. A dystocia is one of the most common issues a mare can have when foaling. this section will review the tolls needed to treat a dystocia, information about the mare and foal during birth and way to help the birth without causing additional harm to the mare or foal.

Section 8 - Laminitis
One of the most difficult illnesses to treat in horses is laminitis episodes, or laminitis. This illness most commonly affects one or both of the front feet, but can affect hind feet in extreme circumstances. This section will review what can cause a laminitis episode, how to treat acute laminitis and brief information regarding the importance of long term, controlled care. 

Section 9 - Neurologic Episodes
Neurologic symptoms can be difficult to diagnose in their beginning stages in horses, however can often become rapidly worse. This section will review the most common causes of onset of neurologic illness, possible causes based on geographic location and treatment options.

Section 10 - Bone Fractures
Fractures in horses can be life ending. However, some can be treated to allow the horse a comfortable, easy life. Sometimes, if caught soon enough and with the right treatments and circumstances, the horse can even return to competition or pleasure riding. This section will review the types of fractures sen, the most common parts of the equine anatomy affected and treatment options for each. 

Section 11 - Placement of IV Catheter and Administration of Fluids/Medications
Regardless of the reason a horse needs an IV Catheter, being able to properly and quickly place it is a vital skill to have as an assistant, technician or even veterinarian. Additionally, administering medications and fluids properly and safely is of the utmost importance. this section will demonstration how to place an IV catheter and some medications, and fluids, as well as safety precautions to take when doing so in any patient.

**This course is required for all students taking the full Rullan University program. Students may not test out of this module.