Nursing and Anaesthesia of the Brachycephalic Patient

Brachycephalic patients present multiple challenges in the peri-operative anaesthetic period, with an increased risk of morbidities relating to conformational problems and concurrent diseases.

These range from brachycephalic airway disease, ocular problems, dermatitis and gastrointestinal problems.

As nurses, we must be aware of the nursing considerations of brachycephalic patients so we can deliver a high standard of care whilst reducing risk when looking after these patients.

This three-part learning series with Kat Crane covers breed-specific considerations for anaesthetising the brachycephalic patient.