Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The field of veterinary nursing should be based upon research and proven experience. Few studies have been performed within the area of distal limb bandages. Therefore the aim of this study was to examine and describe how to place a distal fore limb bandage based on proven experience.

Data material was collected through four interviews with professional veterinary nurses, and then analyzed using a qualitative content analysis. In the analysis data material was transcribed and then divided into meaningful units that responded to the aim. The meaningful units were then condensed. Finally the condensed meaning units were abstracted step by step into codes, subcategories and categories, which formed the result.

The theme of this study was experience-based knowledge. Four categories were made which formed the result; material, complications, feeling and complicated cases. These originate from fifteen sub-categories; padding, middle layer, outer layer, anchoring, economics, ignorance, prevention, action, cause, control, practice makes perfect, non-verbalized feeling, verbalized feeling, anatomy and ethology.

This study has led to valuable knowledge based on experience and the result can be helpful for both professional veterinary nurses as well as students and pet owners. During the interviews, discussions were made concerning different materials available, suitable materials and materials that are less suitable. Prophylactic measures, individualised veterinary nursing and attempts to convey the feeling required for applying a bandage were also discussed. The result has also brought ideas for future research in veterinary nursing.