Question

You are called to examine and treat a valuable 3 year old show cow that appeared normal yesterday but has collapsed and is too weak to get up. You examine her and find T=102F or 38.9 C, HR=130, and RR=42. Her heart is pounding very loudly. The mucous membranes of her eyes, mouth and vulva are all very pale. You diagnose an acutely bleeding abomasal ulcer. What is the most important treatment?

40 liters of saline IV
4 to 8 liters of fresh whole blood IV
4 liters of commercial plasma IV plus vitamin K
20 liters of 1.3% sodium bicarbonate IV
40 liters balanced electrolytes orally

Answer 1

The key treatment for a cow with an acutely bleeding abomasal ulcer is the IV administration of 4 to 8 liters of fresh whole blood to correct hypovolemia and anemia from acute blood loss.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important treatment for a cow diagnosed with an acutely bleeding abomasal ulcer is the administration of 4 to 8 liters of fresh whole blood IV. This will provide immediate volume replacement to address the acute blood loss, helping to improve the mucous membrane color and potentially stabilize the cow's condition.

The administered blood will not only provide volume but also contain essential clotting factors and red blood cells necessary for oxygen transport, which are crucial in managing the situation. Supplemental treatments may include medications to reduce acid production and coat the ulcer site, but the primary focus should be on correcting the hypovolemia and anemia caused by acute blood loss.