Anaesthesia mortality in exotic species – are they dying, or are we killing them?
Tracks
Stream Two - Room E2
| Friday, April 19, 2024 |
| 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM |
| Room E2 |
Overview
Rebecca de Gier
Speaker
Mrs Rebecca de Gier
Uq Vets
Anaesthesia mortality in exotic species – are they dying, or are we killing them?
Abstract
The question of anaesthesia mortality in exotic species is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration. It's important to note that the use of anaesthesia in exotic species, as well as in domestic animals, is a necessary and routine part of veterinary medicine for various procedures, such as surgery, diagnostics, and medical treatments. However, there are risks associated with anaesthesia in any species, and the goal is always to minimize those risks to ensure the well-being and safety of the animal.
Here are some key points to consider:
• Species Variation
• Individual Variation
• Anaesthesia Protocols
• Monitoring and Equipment
• Anaesthesia-Related Complications
• Pre-Anaesthetic Evaluation
• Specialised Training
In conclusion, while there are inherent risks associated with anaesthesia in exotic species, it's not accurate to say that human error is killing them. Instead, the goal is to provide the best possible care while minimizing those risks through proper training, specialised protocols, and careful monitoring. Veterinary professionals strive to balance the need for medical interventions with the well-being of the animals they treat, and anaesthesia is an essential tool in achieving that balance. However, the field is continually evolving, with ongoing research and improvements in anaesthesia techniques to enhance the safety of these procedures for exotic species.
Here are some key points to consider:
• Species Variation
• Individual Variation
• Anaesthesia Protocols
• Monitoring and Equipment
• Anaesthesia-Related Complications
• Pre-Anaesthetic Evaluation
• Specialised Training
In conclusion, while there are inherent risks associated with anaesthesia in exotic species, it's not accurate to say that human error is killing them. Instead, the goal is to provide the best possible care while minimizing those risks through proper training, specialised protocols, and careful monitoring. Veterinary professionals strive to balance the need for medical interventions with the well-being of the animals they treat, and anaesthesia is an essential tool in achieving that balance. However, the field is continually evolving, with ongoing research and improvements in anaesthesia techniques to enhance the safety of these procedures for exotic species.
Biography
Rebecca has a Bachelor of Applied Science degree from the University of Queensland where she majored in Wildlife Biology and Animal Production. She has also obtained a Certificate IV in Veterinary nursing and a Diploma of Practice Management and in 2022 a VTS in companion exotic animals. Since 2009 Rebecca has worked in Veterinary Clinics and hospitals around South East Queensland. In 2014 she came to work at UQ Vets as the Avian and Exotics Service Veterinary Nurse and since 2019 has moved into the Deputy Nurse Manager role and progressed to Nurse Manager in 2021. As nurse manager she has a lot of organising to do, but she ensures her role still consists of clinical on the floor work with patients and clients. She strives to encourage her colleagues to make a difference to the avian and exotics patients that are seen and treated. During her career Rebecca has travelled internationally to New Zealand and Singapore to present seminars, she has offer training to other clinics, written textbook chapters and assisted with world leading avian research. Closer to home she teaches heavily into aspects Avian and Exotic pet medicine of the Veterinary Technology degree at the University of Queensland and within the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Rebecca’s passions lie with ensuring patients are receiving the highest possible care and commitment. She has a soft spot for paediatric and neonate care of Avian patients.
