Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What can be a common consequence of dystocia?

1. Normal delivery

2. Increased survival of offspring

3. Recovery without intervention

4. Potential need for veterinary assistance

The correct answer is: Potential need for veterinary assistance

Dystocia, or obstructed labor, occurs when there are complications that prevent the normal delivery of offspring. One of the common consequences of dystocia is the potential need for veterinary assistance. When an animal experiences difficulties during labor, it may lead to severe stress for both the mother and the offspring, which can further complicate the situation and jeopardize their health. Veterinary intervention may be necessary to extract the offspring safely or to address medical issues arising from the prolonged labor, such as maternal exhaustion, fetal distress, or physical obstruction. Without timely assistance, the risks of serious complications increase, making professional help crucial in such situations. In contrast, options proposing normal delivery or increased survival of offspring do not align with the nature of dystocia. The condition itself implies difficulty in delivery, and while there may be instances where recovery can happen without intervention, it is not typical, especially in more severe cases of dystocia.