VTMED 6624 - Primary Care Surgery Service

Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer. 2 credits. S/U grades only.

Prerequisite: VTMED 5510. Enrollment limited to: fourth-year veterinary students.

M. Moyal, Staff.

The Primary Care Surgery service is a two-week rotation intended to provide students an opportunity to perform physical exams and surgical procedures in the context of general practice. The patients they treat and are ultimately responsible for, are adoptable shelter/rescue dogs and cats. Emphasis is placed on addressing patients from a comprehensive perspective: intake to discharge. Student clinicians are accountable for all peri-operative care. By the end of the rotation, students will have had the opportunity to improve physical exam skills, surgical competence, confidence, and efficiency within the limits of accepted technique. Student clinicians are highly encouraged to experience different methods of performing key skills. There is a significant focus on formulating appropriate treatment plans, the ergonomics of tying good knots, surgical technique as a primary care surgeon, and pain management. Close attention is placed on writing thorough medical records and on client communication skills. Student surgeons work on critical decision making and collaboration with their team. Anesthesia support is provided by licensed veterinary technicians from the Anesthesia Service to ensure continuity in the methods of induction, patient monitoring, and recovery.