Factors that cause bandage complications in equines and how they can be resolved

Abstract

Bandaging equine limbs in practice is carried out by nearly all veterinary team members, although in many practices it is the nurse's responsibility for placement, care and maintenance of the bandage during the patient's time at the hospital. It is a vital part of the veterinary nurse's role to understand the different complications related to inappropriate bandaging as well as noticing signs of discomfort and how to rectify these problems. This will help to educate the future veterinary nursing generation. Techniques and methods of bandaging from small animal and human medicine need to be utilised in equines to help move equine bandaging forward. A standardised method or protocol for bandaging limbs and the abdomen needs to be promoted, and the veterinary team and general public educated to help prevent sores and further complications.