Introduction
Comprehensive care of animals requires attention to their needs and timely response to any violation of vital natural functions. An appropriate intervention needs to be developed based on Arlo’s case as an example of a care plan. A middle-aged male Mini Schnauzer presented to the clinic with severe gastroenteritis and needs continuous care to avoid escalating into a more severe condition.
An appropriate theoretical framework needs to be implemented to enhance the credibility of care options. Namely, the ten abilities model was developed by Orpet and Jeffery, as cited by Nelson and Welsh (2015). Each of the ten steps in this framework must be addressed to help Arlo recover and keep the dog from worsening.
Applying the Ten Abilities Model to the Case
Eating
Meeting this ability for the patient in question is essential because Arlo’s vomiting and diarrhea are crucial factors to address (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). In the case under consideration, providing nutrients that do not cause rejection in the body allows for maintaining the animal’s strength. Adequate feeding supports other body functions and exceptionally normal kidney function (Ackerman, 2020).
Drinking
To maintain the water-salt balance, ensuring constant neutral drinking is essential (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). A particular saline solution can help keep Arlo alive and restore fluid loss in the dog. Ensuring a constant fluid supply could be implemented through subcutaneous injections to avoid rejection through vomiting (Ackerman, 2020).
Urination
One way to detoxify Arlo’s body is through urination, which explains the importance of meeting this aspect (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Due to the limited mobility of the weakened dog, inserting a catheter into the urinary canal is a technique to ensure a steady flow of urine. Adding specific vitamin formulations to the patient’s drink may help eliminate toxins more effectively (Ackerman, 2020).
Defecation
An additional route of detoxification through defecation is essential because the patient’s stomach is cleansed, which is especially important when intoxicated (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Since Arlo has loose stools, antidiarrheals should be prescribed to prevent excessive fluid loss. Taking drugs that affect gastrointestinal motility could help address the associated problems of nausea and vomiting (Ackerman, 2020).
Breathing
Breathing normally for Arlo means maintaining normal thermoregulation and preventing the development of related problems associated with insufficient oxygen supply (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Evaluating the movement of the dog’s abdomen in a stationary state allows for assessing the amplitudes of inhalations and exhalations. To exclude the risk of anemia, a temporary calculation of these amplitudes is required (Ackerman, 2020).
Grooming/cleaning
Maintaining Normal Body Temperature
Arlo’s body toxicity may be accompanied by inflammation, suggesting the need for temperature control (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Periodic thermometer use is mandatory since, in case of an increase or decrease in this parameter, either antipyretic or strengthening drugs are needed. Keeping the bedding dry is a condition to rule out hypothermia (Ackerman, 2020).
Grooming/Cleaning
Preventing infection on the patient’s skin can be achieved through timely cleaning (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Avoiding contact with external stimuli or other animals may help protect the dog from parasites that may aggravate the condition (Varu & Orpet, 2020). To improve circulation, certain areas of the fur can be trimmed (Ackerman, 2020).
Mobility
Weakness caused by dehydration is a reason to control Arlo’s mobility and limit activity (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). The placement of a urinary catheter is the solution to eliminate excessive mobility. Using a unique stretcher or carrying band can help achieve complete rest for the dog (Orpet & Jeffery, 2022).
Sleep and Rest
For Arlo to recover faster, restful sleep for the dog is essential (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Comfortable bedding, keeping quiet, and avoiding contact with other animals is mandatory for keeping calm because excessive stress can aggravate the condition and delay average recovery. To calm the dog, a favorite toy and blanket can be offered to help Arlo feel secure (Nelson & Welsh, 2015).
Express Normal Behavior
Maintaining Arlo’s behavior and stress reduction are essential for improving the dog’s mental well-being because any stress causes anxiety and can exacerbate bouts of nausea and vomiting (Nelson & Welsh, 2015). Interaction with the patient’s owners is essential to ensure a peaceful clinic stay and address Arlo’s habits, such as communication with people. De-caging can be an appropriate solution to reduce a dog’s potential fear and minimize the risk of aggression (Nelson & Welsh, 2015).
Conclusion
The ten abilities model is considered a convenient and practical care framework to help Arlo and keep the dog in good condition during the nearest stay in the clinic. Addressing the individual elements of this plan is mandatory to eliminate stress and reduce patient mobility to speed up the dog’s recovery and eliminate the risks associated with the deterioration of well-being. Controlling fluid intake and reducing stress are the key areas of targeted work to calm Arlo and create a supportive care environment.
References
Ackerman, N. (2020). Renal patients: IRIS scores, nursing care plans and care bundles. The Veterinary Nurse, 11(10), 440-446. Web.
Nelson, D., & Welsh, P. (2015). Using the ability model to design and implement a patient care plan. The Veterinary Nurse, 6(3), 141-149. Web.
Orpet, H., & Jeffery, A. (2022). The veterinary nurse educator. In S. Badger & A. Jeffery (Eds.), Professionalism and reflection in veterinary nursing (pp. 105-129). John Wiley & Sons.
Varu, J., & Orpet, H. (2020). Wildlife nursing – Part one: An introduction and literature review. Veterinary Nursing Journal, 35(9-12), 333-336. Web.