BEVA unveils new splinting guide

BEVA has launched fresh guidance for vets and vet nurses on equine fracture and limb stabilisation.

The BEVA Splinting Guide is said to bring together practical advice in one place to support equine veterinary professionals in making informed decisions when faced with an acute injury in the field.

It is said to include what bandaging and splinting material selection and application, how to improvise when standard equipment is not to hand, approaching undiagnosed fractures and what actions to take before stabilisation or transport.

Assessing patients

BEVA said the guide emphasises the importance of assessing every patient as an individual – with consideration of co-morbidities, complications and risks associated with handling and transport – and putting patient interests first.

It also provides a qualitative classification of fracture incidence, from frequent cases expected weekly or monthly, through to very rare cases occurring on average once every five years or less, said to help practitioners put different presentations into context.

The guide’s development was led by BEVA council member Ian Beamish and junior vice-president Nicky Housby-Skeggs.

‘Palm of your hand’

Mr Beamish said: “Whether you’re facing an emergency in the field or simply want to brush up on your coaptation skills before an event, this resource brings everything together in the palm of your hand.

“Our aim was to produce a practical resource that equine veterinary professionals can turn to when they need clear guidance on temporary stabilisation – whether dealing with an emergency in practice or preparing for the possibility of an injury in the field.”