Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complicated and potentially life threatening form of diabetes mellitus that requires emergency care. It is characterised by hyperglycaemia, hyperketonaemia and a metabolic acidosis with significant fluid and electrolyte imbalances. As the patient is unable to transport glucose into cells, the liver synthesizes ketones as emergency energy sources. These ketone bodies when metabolised produce anions of a moderately strong acid. The accumulation of these ketobodies results in metabolic acidosis. Common symptoms include polydipsia and polyuria, dehydration, anorexia, reduced mentation, vomiting and weight loss. Fluid therapy and the correction of the electrolyte abnormalities are the most important components of treatment of DKA with approximately 70% of dogs and cats surviving to discharge after hospitalisation. It should be noted that these patients can experience reoccurring episodes of DKA in the future. Nurses and technicians are integral in the treatment, monitoring and recovery of these patients.

Dermatology Diagnostics for Veterinary Nurses and Technicians Do you ever wonder why vets do what they do when dealing with skin cases? Does it sometimes feel like we’re just stabbing in the dark hoping for an answer? Do you find that clients get frustrated with lack of progress? Do they bring their frustrations to you, but you don’t always know what to say? You are not alone! Dermatology and ear cases are the most common health problems presented to small animal practices, and they are frequently cited as the most common reasons that clients change veterinary practices. Dermatology cases can appear to be frustrating and complex, but in fact there are some very logical processes that need to be followed. In this webinar we’ll cover the steps that need to be taken to establish a diagnosis for the most common dermatology presentations. If you understand these steps, then you are equipped to effectively communicate these processes to your clients. We’ll also cover some of the specific diagnostic tests undertaken in the pursuit of a diagnosis in veterinary dermatology, and how nurses and technicians can play a pivotal role in this process.

During this webinar Dr. Niek Beijerink will discuss the application of normal cardiac anatomy and physiology. First, an overview of the circulatory system will be provided, information will be provided on normal heart sounds, as well as information on the normal electrocardiogram. Second, a few case examples will be discussed, applying the normal physiological principles.