Useful tips for SP02 monitoring

The best patient monitoring systems are made by Surgivet Ltd and the following advice pertains to the use of their equipment.

SurgiVet® Pulse Oximeter

Sensor Application Tips

Lingual Sensor (Universal “Y” and Mini Clip)

Cats and small to medium dogs: tongue (pink tissue).

•Fold the tongue like a taco or use a wet gauze pad over top.

•Prepuce or vulva of larger dogs.

•Achilles tendon of cat or small to medium dog.

•Ears.

•Toe webbing.

•Can be used for exotics (thigh) and birds (axillary area “armpit”).

•Please note that very bright direct lighting can interfere with sensor

• function, it may be necessary to cover patients head (sensor area)

with drape or a towel.

“C” Sensor

Cats and small to medium dogs: thigh, metatarsal, metacarpal, or hock

• near the saphenous vein.

For larger breed dogs: Achilles tendon, tongue, prepuce or vulva, or

• through toe webbing.

For equine, bovine, etc. place on tongue or ears.

•It may be necessary to wet and part the fur with water in order to get the

 sensor closer to the skin of the patient.

Tail Wrap Sensor

For use on the ventral base of the tail.

•It may be necessary to shave a small area.

•Apply gel to the non-illuminated side and adhere to the shaved area.

•Secure straps around tail.

Reflectance Sensor

In most animals, wet and part the fur at the ventral tail base and wrap (not

• tape) in place. It may be necessary to shave a small spot on the ventral tail

base in patients with a thick undercoat.

For equine, etc. place along gumline or cheek.

•In dogs or cats, if the sensor is inserted rectally, the red light should be shining

 on the sphincter muscle. Do not insert entire length of the probe in the rectum.

Experience will quickly tell you which sensors work best under different

• conditions.

Fur, dark pigmentation, poor perfusion, and movement can affect the

• sensors ability to obtain accurate readings.

• Well-perfused sites (pink tissue) with little or no hair are preferable.

• It is also important to note that some anesthetic drugs, such as Xylazine

 (Rompun), Acepromazine, or Medetomidine (Domitor) can affect peripheral

pulse pressures causing very weak pulsations. All pulse oximeters require a

good quality pulse to work properly. Other drugs, such as ketamine, can cause

the tongue to twitch, limiting the use of a lingual clip on that site.

How to Test Sensor Function

Lingual Sensors (Universal “Y”, “C” Sensor, Mini Clip)

Turn monitor on, attach sensor to monitor without extension cable.

1.View the sensor to make sure a red light is emitted and steady.

2.Place sensor on small finger (no nail polish) light shining down on nail.

3.Rest hand on table to minimize motion.

4.Shield sensor from high ambient light by placing other hand over top.

5.Once placed, red light should be continuous. A blinking light may indicate

 tissue thickness is too thin or too thick.

6. SpO2 and Pulse rate should appear in 10-15 seconds, SpO2 should read

96% or higher.

Reflectance Sensor

Can be tested in a similar manner as indicated above.

1.Press lighted area against palm of hand and fold fingers over top or

2. place other hand over the sensor to shield from light.

Please note that a rapid, low emitting, blinking light may indicate sensor

 malfunction.

http://www.acravet.ie/
http://www.xlvets.ie/links.php

Veterinary Dental X-rays

What are the requirements?
1. PetDent kit you get 1 (one) flexible plastic cassette and 2 (ie a pair) screens for green-sensitive film.  These are for indefinite re-use and are disinfected between uses – just a sterile wipe is adequate.
2.The film can be processed in any standard-cycle medical film processor that will accept film sized 6 x 12cm. There is no special holder required.   The cassette is placed in the animal’s mouth, withdrawn manually, and the film removed for developing in a light-tight environment in the usual way.

Not all automatic film processors are suitable but it is quite easy and straightforward to develop manually using a Nova processor or a small tray system.Temperature of the chemistry is crucial to success and should be maintained around 25 Celsius.At this temperature ,development time is approximately 3 minutes and the film should be agitated in the tray for the first 90 seconds  to prevent air bubbles sticking to the film and causing underdeveloped spots.

The Petdent kit is sold  complete with a flexible cassette containing intensifying screens and 50 individual films for just 95 €+Vat.

Canine Hydrotherapy

The benefits of water based rehabilitation therapy have been recognised for a long time.The problem is ensuring the treatment is undertaken within clearly defined control conditions.Clever design features from Technik Technology ensure your practise will be able to offer your clients the most advanced rehabilitation system together with weight reduction and improved fitness levels

To appreciate the benefits of aquatic therapy it is necessary to understand the basic principles and properties of water.

	Relative Density - The relative density of an object is the ratio of the weight of the object to the weight of an equal volume of water.
	Buoyancy - Aids in rehabilitation of weak muscles and painful joints by reducing weight-bearing on joints.
	Hydrostatic Pressure - Fluid pressure is exerted equally on all surfaces of an immersed body, the deeper a body is immersed the greater the pressure.
	Viscosity - A measure of the frictional resistance of a liquid, this is significantly greater in water than air.
	Surface Tension - Occurs where water meets air and as a result resistance to movement is greater than movement in air alone.
	Temperature - Water temperature can affect rehabilitation, aid relaxation and improve pain management.

These are important components to consider and understand when planning effective aquatic rehabilitation programmes.

1. Changing the water level promotes the proper resistence for specific joints or muscle groups .
2. The high visibility design offers outstanding viewing from every angle to better promote patients progress.
3. Buoyancy reduces relative bodyweight of the patient, minimising concussive forces on the joints and limbs.
4. Training in water is very effective in building up cardiovascular strength and endurance.
5. Hydrostatic pressure provides constant pressure on a limb to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
6. The unique walk through design removes the need to turn the patient around within the chamber after each session.
7. Adjustable water temperature promotes relaxation ,rehabilitation and pain management. 

Veterinary practice benefits:

• Standing out from your competitors is essential in today's increasingly difficult business environment
• Adding hydrotherapy to your practice allows you to complete the rehabilitation process
• Improves client relationships through better service
• Allows you to offer a referral service to neighbouring practices
• Provides added value to your clients
• Generates additional income
• Older animals benefit from a better quality less painful existence and the commercial benefits of an extended lifespan for working animals such as sniffer,search and rescue,guard and guide dogs is incalculable.

Ethylene Oxide Sterilisation

Ethylene oxide sterilisation has become more important to the veterinary profession as effective implementation of hygienic measures is advised to prevent and contain the transmission of nosocomial infections to animals and humans both within veterinary settings and in the community(FECAVA working group on hygiene 2010).

Whereas most veterinary practises have access to an autoclave for routine sterilisation of surgical instruments ,swabs and drapes etc it is more problematic when sterility is required for heat sensitive items such as endoscopes.clothing ,implants.catheters,electric or battery operated tools etc.

If you are considering the use of anprolene the following information may be of benefit.

1.When used as directed it is very safe.

2.Training is recommended and is generally provided by the supplier at installation.

3 At sea level ethylene oxide is a liquid below 51 degrees F.Above 51 degrees F ,EtO begins to boil and converts into a gas.It does not become an effective sterilant until 68 degrees F.So the room where your anprolene steriliser is installed must be capable of maintaining 68 degrees F for the duration of the sterilising cycle

4 Relative humidity should be at least 35% in the room where item preparation and sterilisation take place.

To prepare items for sterilisation four basic steps should always be followed.

1. Disassemble.

Items containing removable parts such as syringes must be taken apart before washing.Instruments which contain batteries should be taken apart and the batteries removed and wrapped separately to protect against a spark occurring .

2.Wash

Items must be washed surgically clean prior to sterilisation.For cleaning we recommend using a detergent.

3. Dry

Two accepted ways to dry any item prior to sterilisation with Anprolene

A. Towel Drying

B.Air Drying

Heat or hot air should never be used  for drying as it will dehydrate or dessiccate bacteria spores making them more resistant to the ethylene oxide gas.Items should be dried thoroughly as any water left on items may react with gas. 

4.Wrap

The following types of wrapping material are recommended for use with Anprolene

A. Andersen seal and peel.

B.Cloth ,like CSR wrap has an estimated sterile shelf life of 30 days

C.Self seal pouches

D.Tyvek paper pouches

Exposure indicators  which change colour when exposed to ethylene oxide are available.

The usual Anprolene sterilisation cycle is 12 hours plus a 2 hour purge cycle.When sterilising lengths of tubing 3 feet or longer or a full load of gas absorbant items it may be necessary to increase the cycle time to 24 hours.

Items made of gas absorbent material must be aerated at a minimum room temperature of 68 degrees F for at least 24 hours prior to use. 

For supplies or advice please contact me pfxtkavanagh@gmail.com

Automatic x-ray processor

Pre owned Agfa CP1000 in excellent working condition.Easily installed and ideal for the busy practise that requires consistent reliable results with the minimum of expense.

Recently serviced by Agfa engineer.

Can be delivered and installed anywhere in Ireland.

Digital Veterinary X-Ray

View our Online Brochure

Digital X-Ray Veterinary facilities have moved from the aspirational to inspirational with the launch of the new Konica Regius system.Weighing just 28kgs it has an incredibly small footprint and brings the superb versatility and speed of digital imaging into the range of all veterinary facilities.Veterinary customers have expressed real enthusiasm when presented with this really cost effective system and true delight when its capabilities and size are revealed.

If you are searching for a truly brilliant digital x-ray system then your search is over and even your bank manager may allow a little smile line on his/her otherwise furrowed brow when presented with the commercial argument!
For a product demonstration on your premises in Ireland please contact pfxtkavanagh@gmail.com

Website www.vetequipment.ie

Bovine/Equine Ultrasound scanner

Cattle ultrasound scanning equipment in Ireland has just taken a giant leap forward with the introduction of the latest Ibex scanner .Ultrasound is a wonderful diagnostic tool .It is most commonly used in cattle to detect pregnancy or problems with the reproductive system and in horses it can also be used to scan tendons for injury.The nature of these examinations expose the scanner to many circumstances which can be dangerous for electronic equipment.Dung,moisture,impact with hard surfaces,condensation ,dust and even occasionally owner abuse are all factors that contribute to a shortened lifespan of scanning machines.Vetequip Ltd in Cork  are now the official agents for the Ibex Lite and Ibex Pro ultrasound machines from E.I Medical in Colorado U.S.A.These units are built exclusively for the Scanning Professional and are as tough as the job .They feature:

Ruggedised Construction
Lightweight  goggles

Digital Imaging

Portable and lightweight

Intuitive and easy to use
Image storage

Economical

Long battery life

Please view the following video and then give me a call to discuss your requirements Pat Kavanagh 087 2503629 or John Sweeney 087 2670137 

                                               

                                                     Pat Kavanagh 087 2503629
Now you can view this product and many more in our online catalogue www.vetequipment.ie 

Small Animal Abdominal Ultrasound Scanning Workshop June 22/23 2011

Dr Paul Brazzell proved to be an excellent speaker.He combined  his unique ability to impart knowledge and undoubted enthusiasm for the topic with a measure of humour and entertainment that kept the capacity attendance interested to the very end.Paul enjoyed his trip to Ireland and hopes to return on a regular basis even if it is only to keep an eye on his proteges!!

Sharing and storing your Microscope Images

Clients really appreciate if when there is a problem with their animal they can see something illustrated which will explain the condition.It is a common perception that microscope images are difficult to project or review on a T.V or computer.This is not the case as relatively in-expensive adapters are now available which make the job very simple.
The requirements are
Binocular or trinocular microscope
Digital Camera adapter
or
CCTV adapter
or
Minicam adapter for analogue output to a TV
Digital cameras with screw thread lens housing such as Nikon Coolpix are recommended as non threaded units will need a linkarm.

Trinocular Microscope

Help ! X-ray images are disappointing.

1. Blame the x-ray machine.
2. Blame the x-ray processor.
3. Blame the equipment supplier..

Before you do any more blaming perhaps a little detective work nearer to home would be helpful.
             Problem                                      Possible Solution

•  Is the image too light or too dark? :Under or over-exposed. Focal distance too high or low
• Scratches on Image: Check for chemical crystals on the roller system.
• Dark areas around edge of exposed film:.Film exposed to light prior to x-ray
• Blank film emerges from processor: Check level of developer within processor
• Black film emerges from processor;Over exposed or film exposed to light before inserting into cassette.

Still got problems?
Derscribe what is happening .Advise me what equipment you are using and hopefully we can help.
Queries to pfxtkavanagh@gmail.com

Buying the right equipment to suit your needs.

This is a real problem area for the veterinary profession as a wrong decision now will be a source of anxiety and anger for as long as the equipment is in your practise.
So how do you make the choice?.

1. Price
2. Specifications
3. Suitability
4. Physical size
5. Back up service
6. Reference from colleague.
7. Review
8. Good sales pitch
9. Warranty
10. Clarity as to what exactly is being offered.
11. What ifs.
12. Support and training.
13. Delivery and installation
14. Relationship with supplier.
15. Your expectations post sale.

All of the above bullet points need to be addressed.Failure to investigate properly can be a costly error so the best advice is to research properly and not rely on price criteria.
Pat Kavanagh

Small Animal Ultrasound Seminar/Workshop

Acravet Ltd in conjunction with Dr Paul Brazzell will present a two day seminar/workshop on small animal abdominal ultrasound scanning in the DSPCA campus Mount Venus Road, Rathfarnham Dublin 16 on 22nd and 23rd June 2011.
The course includes ultrasound training as well as discussion of the business and marketing of veterinary ultrasonography.
Day 1:

•  Image optimisation and knobology.How to use ultrasound features and tools.
• Basic Physics and artifacts.How to use artifacts to your advantage.
• Full abdominal ultrasound scanning protocol. A routine for smooth scanning.
• Basic abdominal ultrasound (hands on) Liver. Gall Bladder.Spleen,Kidneys,Urinary, Bladder and Prostate.

Day 2:

• Emergency Ultrasonography .The 5 minute exam in the E.R. patient using the four quadrant approach.
• Ultrasound guided fine needle aspirates and Tru Cut biopsies.Techniques and limitations
• Advanced Abdominal Ultrasound,Gastrointestinal tract,lymph nodes,Pancreas,Adrenal glands, Great vessels and Biliary outflow tract,
• The business of Veterinary ultrasound

Course notes will be provided and CPD points  available.Participants may bring  their own machine for practical sessions but a range of scanners will be available for use  each day.


Dr Paul Brazzell  DVM is a 1988 graduate of the University of Saskatchewan Western College of veterinary medicine.He practiced privately for over 15 years in small animal referral practices that he built and owned before pursuing his passion for ultrasound full time.He has over 20 years experience in veterinary practice and has incorporated ultrasound into general ,emergency.referral,and mobile ultrasonography practices.
He offers a unique perspective on the business and marketing of ultrasound.
Dr Brazzell teaches ultrasound at Western Veterinary College in Pomona,CA.He also provides in hospital and seminar based abdominal and cardiac ultrasound  education to veterinarians in Canada and the U.S
He is co-owner.Vice President and General Manager of Canadian Veterinary Imaging Inc.
For further details contact :
Pat Kavanagh  Mobile :087 2503629 or e-mail pfxtkavanagh@gmail.com
or click on the following link to register online.
http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=zjlbzdfab&oeidk=a07e3o7kriv1f3ebe00