DOI : https :// doi . org / 10.56496 / KYVY6360

Zoe Chapman , RVN , Cert CFVHnut

ENVELOPE pk20665 @ bristol . ac . uk

Zoe has been an RVN for 13 years and has worked in first opinion and referral practice , where she has found a particular interest in neurology . Outside work , Zoe competes in dog agility events with her border collies , Ludo and Mambo . She currently works at Langford Vets Small Animal Hospital in Somerset .

ABSTRACT Polyradiculoneuritis is a neuromuscular disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system , causing weakened , reduced or absent voluntary movement .

Dogs with polyradiculoneuritis are unable to perform normal voluntary motion or stand in a normal position . They usually present with a short-striding gait that progresses over the course of 5 – 10 days to tetraparesis or tetraplegia .

As patients with this condition may be susceptible to secondary complications , it can be challenging to care for them , but it can also be highly rewarding .

This article describes the clinical signs of polyradiculoneuritis and outlines the nursing care considerations specific to these cases . It also discusses the veterinary nurse ' s vital role in the care of patients with polyradiculoneuritis .

The case study evaluates the nursing care of an 8-yearold female cocker spaniel , which presented with a 2-day history of acute-onset , rapidly progressive ( 2 hours ), symmetrical , non-painful , non-ambulatory tetraparesis . While hospitalised , the dog developed aspiration pneumonia , which is commonly seen in patients with lower motor neuron conditions such as polyradiculoneuritis .

The study outlines the treatment , physiotherapy and nursing care provided in this case – including nutrition , hygiene , mental stimulation and rehabilitation , as well as addressing comorbidities such as aspiration .

The dog recovered well following an intense nursing programme and has returned to full ambulatory status .

Keywords polyradiculoneuritis , neuromuscular , aspiration , physiotherapy , rehabilitation , nursing

44 Veterinary Nursing Journal