Reflection on Initial Handling Skills

A reflection upon the mock OSPE exam at the start of my MSc.

During a mock exam, we demonstrated a range of equine handling skills including applying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and leading a horse. During this exercise, I found that I wasn’t sufficiently prepared for the safety aspects; wearing unsuitable clothing and almost forgetting helmet wear. Having had my own, trusted horses for many years I soon realised personal safety was neglected as I had become familiar and comfortable. All students handling equines are at risk of injury, however this is usually not severe and can be prevented by the wearing of protective boots, gloves and helmets (Riley et al, 2015). Therefore, wearing appropriate clothing and PPE is essential in preventing injury throughout my aspiring Veterinary Physiotherapy career.

My concentration was on the task in hand and although aware of safety issues, I was not fully focussed on personal safety and potential dangers did not occur to me. The experience was enlightening because it highlighted the aspect I needed focus on. Being comfortable around horses and confident in their handling is an essential attribute to my chosen career, however I realise that being too complaisant puts myself at risk and I need to be mindful of that fact. The frequency of head injury has been found to be equal in unmounted and mounted equestrians (Carmichael et al, 2014), proving handling to be just as dangerous as riding with risk of injury being irrespective of experience (Mayberry et al, 2007). Anyone in close contact with horses should take preventative measures such as helmet use (Thomas et al, 2006). Had I read through the yard rules beforehand, I would have been aware that helmets were always to be worn on the yard when leading horses. ​

In future practical handling, I will be attentive to dresscode/PPE and more vigilant when handling; anticipating any risks to myself or the horse. I understand that in a career working with unfamiliar horses every day, safety and minimising the risk of injury to the best of my ability is paramount.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

References

Carmichael II, Samuel P, Davenport DL, Kearney PA and Bernard AC (2014). On and Off The Horse: Mechanisms and Patterns of Injury in Mounted and Unmounted Equestrians. Injury. 45(9), pp. 1479-1484.

Mayberry JC, Pearson TE, Wiger KJ, Diggs BS and Mullins RJ (2007). Equestrian Injury Prevention Efforts Need More Attention to Novice Riders. The Journal of Trauma. 62(3), pp. 735-739.

Riley CB, Liddiard JR and Thompson K (2015). A Cross-Sectional Study of Horse-Related Injuries in Veterinary and Animal Science Students at an Australian University. Animals. 5, pp. 951-964.

Thomas KE, Annest JL, Gilchrist J and Bixby-Hammett DM (2006). ‘Non-Fatal Horse Related Injuries Treated in Emergency Departments in the United States. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 40(6), pp. 619-626.