ABSTRACT: First reported in 1969, hyperlipaemia is now a well-known condition seen in pony breeds, donkeys and miniatures. Reported mortality rates are high, but with quick identification and appropriate nursing support the condition is potentially reversible. This case report details the pathophysiology of the condition in relation to clinical signs and describes how a nursing care plan was implemented to provide holistic patient care for successful treatment of a pony with hyperlipaemia.

Conclusion

The NCP was carried out to a high standard with everyone involved understanding their roles and through systematic review actual problems were identified and nursing interventions were put in place to deal with them within the constraints of limited finances. The patient remained in the hospital for 8 days and gradually her actual problems were reduced as she responded to treatment and nursing care. The patients condition slowly improved until she was able to go home with a strict home care plan. She gave birth to a healthy foal 8 weeks later and was able to support herself and the foal (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Mare and newborn foal.

Author

Anna Saul

After gaining experience on an event yard and undertaking a BSc (Hons) in Equine Science, Anna has worked in the equine veterinary nursing industry for 14 years and has recently completed her Diploma in clinical veterinary nursing with distinction. She is passionate about her nursing role and takes pride in providing excellent up-to-date nursing care in practice.

Emails: equine@aireworthvets.co.uk, bishopsenigma@yahoo.co.uk

Keywords: hyperlipaemia; pony; nursing care plan

To cite this article: Veterinary Nursing Journal • VOL 33 (02) • February 2018 pp44-47

To gain access to this article, select one of the links below:

I am a BVNA member

I am accessing through my Institute

I am paying to gain access to this article