ANSWERS

1. Define vomiting.
   Vomiting is a reflex act of expulsion of the stomach contents via the oesophagus and mouth. Vomiting is also known as emesis.
2. Vomiting is always a serious condition in animals; why?
   The patient is likely to suffer dehydration if the fluid lost through vomiting is not replaced. It is always prudent to advise a client to bring their animal to the surgery at the earliest convenience if vomiting is reported.
3. What treatments and nursing techniques might be sensible in the care of a hospitalised vomiting patient?
   • Radiography/diagnostic tests to establish the cause.
   • Fluid therapy if indicated.
   • Nil by mouth for 24 hours.
   • An oral electrolyte replacement fluid following starvation.
   • Small frequent feeds of a very bland diet following starvation.
   • Accurate completion of hospital records noting the time, duration and quantity of each incident of vomiting.
   • Examination of the vomit for the presence of blood, bile or foreign bodies.
   • Barrier nursing in case the condition is contagious.
   • Vigilance - watch for aspiration pneumonia.
4. Give examples of proprietary diets that might be suitable for a patient recovering from episodes of vomiting.
   • Hills Prescription Diet I/D.
   • Pedigree Petfoods Selected Protein.
     
     Both are chicken and rice based, relatively bland and easily digestible. In addition, they are palatable - useful if the animal is anorexic.
5. What is meant by 'cyclic vomiting'?
   This term describes recurrent acts of vomiting.
6. Define retching.
   Ineffectual attempts to vomit.
7. What is meant by 'bilious vomit'?
   Bilious vomit contains bile, and is seen in cases where hepatic function is compromised.
8. What is 'stercoraceous vomit'?
   Stercoraceous vomit contains faeces.
9. What is meant by 'projectile vomiting'?
   This term describes the forceful expulsion of the stomach contents via oesophagus and mouth.
10. List 6 conditions that include vomiting as one of the prime symptoms.
    • Poisoning.
    • Gastro-enteritis.
    • Intussusception.
    • Canine parvovirus.
    • Eclampsia.
    • Feline panleucopenia
11. What is an anti-emetic drug? Give an example.
    An anti-emetic is an anti-sickness drug. Metoclopramide (Emequell) is often used in veterinary practice. It is available in both an injectable and tablet preparation.
12. Why must scrupulous care be taken with the hygiene of a vomiting patient?
    Vomit from the affected animal may contain viruses and/or bacteria that contaminate the environment, thus spreading contagious diseases by indirect contact. It is therefore essential to clean up vomit immediately and use an effective disinfectant. Wear protective clothing and dispose of contaminated material safely in sealed clinical waste sacks.