Morbidity and mortality remains a serious issue for veterinary patients undergoing anesthesia. Today, we are talking with patient safety expert, Dr. Luiz Santos who has some valuable insights in the importance of checklists, why time outs save lives, and the best way to lead your M&M rounds. Links to resources discussed in this episode: https://ava.eu.com/resources/checklists/…
A friend of mine recently called me up because his dog was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. The dog was on carprofen and the clinician told my friend there was really nothing else they could give for pain. That didn't sound right to me so I went to Katelyn McDonald CVT, VTS (Oncology) to get the scoop. Katelyn McDonald, CVT, VTS (oncology) has been working in veterinary medicine for over 25 years. She…
Paracetamol is a staple in UK anesthesia practice, but in North America, it is hardly utilized. n this episode, we break down the pharmacology, species-specific considerations, and real-world case applications of Acetaminophen, of this often misunderstood drug. From when it can be a valuable tool to when it can be dangerous, we explore how to use it thoughtfully and effectively in practice. Matt…
We've all been there. You need to run diagnostics, or place a catheter, but it's not going to happen without some heavy sedation. But, what do you do when you discover the feline you need to sedate has a murmur that hasn't been worked up? Dr. Gianluca Bini graduated from the University of Perugia, Italy. He then moved to the United Kingdom, where he completed two internships, one in anesthesia and…
Hypothermia can happen during any anesthesia procedure, but it seems especially common during dentistry procedures. In this episode we chat with Benita Altier LVT, VTS (Dentistry) to discuss how hypothermia happens and what steps we can take to prevent and correct it. Benita Altier is a Licensed Veterinary Technician and a Dental Technician Specialist. She began her career in veterinary technology…
In this episode, we’re chatting with Darci Palmer, CVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), about a simple but powerful tool you can add to your sedation toolbox: the GV 20 acupuncture point. Darci breaks down how and why GV 20 can help take the edge off for anxious patients, support smoother sedation, and make handling easier for both patients and staff. She shares practical tips, real-life examples,…
In this episode of the Veterinary Anesthesia Nerds podcast we sit down with renowned veterinary anesthesiologist Dr. Sheilah Robertson to tackle the unique challenges of pediatric anesthesia. When dealing with tiny kittens and puppies, Dr. Robertson shares her expertise on how physiology, drug metabolism, and peri-anesthetic care differ in young patients. The conversation covers practical…
Do your surgical patients need more than just a comforter and a heat source in recovery? Join Tabitha Kucera, RVT, KPA-CTP, VTS (Behavior) as we talk about al the ways you can create the optimal surgical recovery area for your patients. What sights, sounds, and smells should we be trying to achieve or avoid? Its all discussed today on the Veterinary Anesthesia Nerds podcast! About Tabitha: As a…
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of inhalant anesthetics—specifically isoflurane and sevoflurane—and how they fit into a balanced anesthesia protocol. Join Tasha & VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia) Jen Dupre-Welsh as they break down the pharmacology, pros and cons, and clinical considerations of each agent. Whether you're a seasoned technician or just getting comfortable with gas…
Nutrition is often a forgotten aspect of the overall animal healthcare experience, especially when compared to the more "sexy" specialties such as ECC and Anesthesia. However, nutrition plays a VITAL role in effecting almost all specialties and body systems of our patients. Today we talk to Robin Saar, a VTS (Nutrition) to talk about how nutrition plays a role specifically in post op recovery, and…