Delayed passage through the birth
canal in the face of a faltering placenta compromises oxygenation of the
calf. Although the calf is able to breathe as soon as its nose passes
the lips of the vulva, expansion of the chest is restricted by the narrow
birth canal. This situation is seriously aggravated when continuous
forced traction is applied. As soon as the calf's head has passed
the lips of the vulva, traction should be interrupted, the nostrils cleared
of mucus and cold water applied to the head.
Again, when
the calf is completely delivered, primary attention is directed toward
establishing respiration. Mucus and fetal fluids should be expressed
from the nose and mouth by external pressure of the thumbs along the bridge
of the nose and the flat fingers underneath the jaws, sliding from the
level of the eyes toward the muzzle. The common practice of suspending
the calf by it hindlegs to "clear the lungs", must be questioned.
Most of the fluids that drain from the mouth of these calves probably come
from the stomach, and the weight of the intestines on the diaphragm makes
expansion of the lungs difficult. The most effective way to clear
the airway is by suction.
Respiration
is stimulated by many factors, but only ventilation of the lungs, allow
us to render help immediately. Brisk rubbing of the skin
or tickling inside the nostril with a piece of straw also has a favorable
effect. The phrenic nerve can be stimulated with a sharp tap on the
chest slightly above and behind where the heartbeat can be felt.
|
|
