Haemoglobin: The oxygen uber of the bloodstream
Tracks
Stream One - Plaza Terrace
| Thursday, March 26, 2026 |
| 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM |
| Plaza Terrace |
Overview
Melissa Shoard
Speaker
Mrs Melissa Shoard
Veterinary Care Training Academy
Haemoglobin: The oxygen uber of the bloodstream
Abstract
Haemoglobin is at the heart of oxygen delivery, but there’s more to this molecule than meets the eye. This lecture unpacks its dynamic role in physiological balance, examining how its structure and behaviour underpin cellular respiration, gas exchange, and clinical stability.
We’ll explore haemoglobin's cooperative binding, shifts in affinity, and how it responds to physiological stressors. The session then pivots to the real-world challenges that arise when haemoglobin malfunctions, covering conditions like methemoglobinemia, carboxyhaemoglobinemia, and other dyshemoglobinaemias that interfere with oxygen transport and threaten patient outcomes.
Attendees will better understand how to recognise, diagnose, and respond to haemoglobin-related abnormalities in clinical settings, especially within emergency and critical care. Whether interpreting blood gas results or managing unstable patients, this talk combines molecular insight with bedside relevance, equipping you with tools to translate theory into action.
We’ll explore haemoglobin's cooperative binding, shifts in affinity, and how it responds to physiological stressors. The session then pivots to the real-world challenges that arise when haemoglobin malfunctions, covering conditions like methemoglobinemia, carboxyhaemoglobinemia, and other dyshemoglobinaemias that interfere with oxygen transport and threaten patient outcomes.
Attendees will better understand how to recognise, diagnose, and respond to haemoglobin-related abnormalities in clinical settings, especially within emergency and critical care. Whether interpreting blood gas results or managing unstable patients, this talk combines molecular insight with bedside relevance, equipping you with tools to translate theory into action.
Biography
Melissa is a passionate and accomplished emergency and critical care (ECC) veterinary nurse based in Western Sydney, with over a decade of experience spanning general practice, specialty hospitals, and high-pressure ECC settings. As a proud AVN and RVN, she holds a VTS in ECC, dual Diplomas in ECC and GP nursing, and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessing. Her career is marked by an unwavering commitment to education and mentorship—training the next generation of nurses, techs, and vets through engaging, hands-on learning.
A published author in the Australian Veterinary Nurse Journal and regular conference lecturer, Melissa was recently honoured with the prestigious 2024 Louise O'Dwyer VTS Aspiration Award, recognising her drive, excellence, and contribution to veterinary nursing. Her volunteering efforts with VNCA at both state and national levels reflect her deep commitment to the growth and unity of the industry.
Melissa is the founder of Veterinary Care Training Academy (VCTA), a dynamic platform designed to elevate veterinary education through tailored training, critical care modules, and leadership development. She's also the charismatic host of VetCare Talk Time, a refreshingly honest podcast that dives into every corner of the veterinary world—from the heroic to the hilarious, and yes, even the bits covered in poop. Whether she's lecturing, podcasting, or building new training resources, Melissa leads with heart, humour, and a dedication to making veterinary care better for all.
