Question

A 10-day old commercial dairy calf has diarrhea that is white in color. The calf is dehydrated, hypovolemic, weak and unable to stand. T=100F (37.8 C), HR=100, and RR=20. No other abnormalities are found on physical examination. Based on these findings, what is the treatment of choice?

IV fluids containing only saline
IV fluids containing 50 meq/L of potassium
IV fluids with added sodium bicarbonate
Oral fluids containing sodium bicarbonate
Oral fluids containing high levels of both sodium and chloride

Answer 1

The treatment of choice for a dehydrated, weak 10-day old commercial dairy calf with white diarrhea would be IV fluids containing 2/3 isotonic saline and 1/3 Na lactate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The treatment of choice for a 10-day old commercial dairy calf with white-colored diarrhea, dehydration, hypovolemia, weakness, and inability to stand would be IV fluids containing 2/3 isotonic saline and 1/3 Na lactate. This mixture of fluids helps to repair the losses of fluid and electrolytes, and it is particularly beneficial in cases where the calf is excreting fluid high in sodium (Na) and bicarbonate (HCO3).

The IV fluids with added sodium bicarbonate are not the best treatment in this case, as they would not address the calf's hypovolemia and weakness adequately.