Monitoring of anaesthetised dogs and cats - ANZCVS position statement, 2024
The Anaesthesia and Analgesia Chapter of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) has produced a position statement defining the minimum standards for the monitoring of anaesthesia in companion animal
practice.
The position statement provides guidance on the minimum requirements for adequate monitoring during anaesthesia, to optimise animal safety.
The Board recommends the approach outlined in the position statement to the profession.
Position Statement
During anaesthesia of healthy dogs and cats there must be a person dedicated to the role of monitoring and recording the physiological status of the animal and any events related to the safe conduct of anaesthesia. This person must be appropriately trained and experienced or must work under direct supervision of someone who is appropriately trained and experienced.
In addition to clinical observations of the animal (palpation of a peripheral pulse, measurement of pulse rate and respiratory rate, observation of mucous membrane colour/ capillary refill time and subjective assessment of depth of anaesthesia), monitoring of anaesthesia should be complimented by the use of equipment including a pulse oximeter, capnograph, blood pressure monitor, and thermometer. A record of anaesthesia must be created in every case.
Animals must always be observed from the time that drugs are first administered to the time that adequate recovery from the procedure has been confirmed.
More information: ANZCVS Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia Chapter
Relevant guidelines