Equine Physical Exam Techniques for Veterinary Technicians

What is the first step in performing a physical exam on a horse?

• Checking the horse's weight

• Taking the horse's temperature

• Listening to the horse's heart rate

• Assessing the horse's skin condition

How is a horse's weight estimated in the absence of a scale?

• Using a weight tape

• Measuring the horse's height

• Calculating based on the horse's age

• Estimating based on the horse's breed

Why is it important to stay close to the horse when taking its temperature?

• To keep the horse calm

• To prevent the thermometer from breaking

• To reduce the power behind a potential kick

• To accurately read the temperature

What method is used to check a horse's heart rate?

• Feeling the pulse on the horse's leg

• Using a stethoscope on the chest

• Using a heart rate monitor

• Listening behind the horse's elbow

What is checked to assess the GI tract during a physical exam?

• Water consumption rate

• Stomach sounds only

• Upper and lower GI tract motility

• Food intake in the last 24 hours

How is safety maintained when moving around a horse during an exam?

• By always staying in front of the horse

• By having the owner hold the horse

• By moving quickly and unpredictably

• By keeping close to minimize kick power

What is the primary reason for checking a horse's gums during a physical exam?

• To check for oral lesions

• To evaluate capillary refill time

• To assess hydration levels

• To check for dental issues

Where is the most common site for administering IM injections in horses?

• In the neck

• In the gluteal muscles

• In the flank

• In the pectoral muscles

What is the correct procedure if blood is aspirated during an IM injection?

• Continue with the injection

• Pull out the needle and start over in a different spot

• Apply pressure to stop the bleeding

• Immediately administer an anticoagulant

How is blood typically drawn from a horse?

• From the carotid artery

• From the cephalic vein

• From the jugular vein

• From the femoral artery