By: Jillian Saldana, DVM— Coral Springs Animal Hospital Emergency & Urgent Care Clinician
Different types
of emergencies
can present at
any time of day
or night. Being
prepared for an
emergency
is
imperative and
can mean the
difference between life and death.
Having a centrally located crash cart
that is fully stocked and easily
available saves time, lives, and
decreases chaos. This is a brief review
of what a crash cart or box should
include.
Emergency Area: A
designated
area should be made for assessment
and treatment of an incoming critical
patient. Ideally, it should be open and
available at all times. All resuscitation
equipment and drugs should be
available in this area. It should be
well lit and electrical outlets must be
easily accessible.
Each day,
equipment, supplies, and drugs
should be reviewed to ensure
appropriate preparation and use.
http://www.vetfolio.com/emergency-medicine/crash-carts-
preparation-and-maintenance
Cart versus Box: A crash cart is a
mobile, compact cart equipped with
medical equipment and supplies. It is
good for multiple doctor, high-volume
hospitals.
A crash box may be
adequate for small hospitals or low
volume hospitals. Hospital staff should
discuss and decide on which apparatus
to use and what each should include.