Is Pleural Effusion Present?
Perform thoracocentesis if necessary. Rather than obtaining radiographs, it is often safer to attempt thoracocentesis if you suspect there is a large pleural effusion. This can be a life-saving measure if an effusion is present, and generally does little harm if there is no effusion (but use a small butterfly cannula) Arterial Blood Pressure? Many animals with poor cardiac output will be hypotensive, which will require specific therapeutic measures. A noninvasive technique for measuring arterial pressure is invaluable (e.g., a Doppler ultrasonic or oscillometric technique). ECG? ECG monitoring equipment should be readily available, and you should be able to interpret the common serious arrhythmias! Oxygen: Have available, administer safely and effectively. Provide oxygen by plastic bag, face mask, cage, or tent if the patient will tolerate it. If not, the airflow of a fan to the face. Just allowing the animal to rest quietly in a cage will decrease oxygen requirements. Respiratory arre
