Certified Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Technician Practice Exam
Education
1. Anesthesia and Analgesia Understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology as they relate to anesthesia. Assistance in developing and implementing anesthetic plans to ensure patient safety and procedural efficacy. Preparation and maintenance of anesthetic equipment and related supplies. Establishment and maintenance of a patent airway using endotracheal intubation. Monitoring and response to patient status during all stages of anesthesia (pre-, peri-, and post-). 2. Cardiovascular System Assessment and management of cardiovascular emergencies, including shock, arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest. Interpretation of electrocardiograms (ECGs) and other diagnostic tools. Administration of cardiovascular drugs and monitoring their effects. Implementation of fluid therapy protocols to support cardiovascular function. 3. Respiratory System Management of respiratory emergencies, such as dyspnea, respiratory distress, and respiratory failure. Utilization of oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation techniques. Interpretation of arterial blood gases and other respiratory diagnostics. Assistance in procedures like thoracocentesis and tracheostomy. 4. Gastrointestinal System Management of gastrointestinal emergencies, including vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Interpretation of diagnostic tests such as fecal examinations and imaging studies. Implementation of nutritional support and fluid therapy for gastrointestinal patients. Assistance in endoscopic procedures and surgical interventions. 5. Urinary System Management of urinary emergencies, including acute kidney injury, urinary tract obstructions, and electrolyte imbalances. Interpretation of urinalysis and other diagnostic tests. Implementation of fluid therapy and diuretic protocols. Assistance in procedures like cystocentesis and urinary catheterization. 6. Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Balance Assessment of hydration status and identification of fluid deficits. Calculation and administration of intravenous fluids. Management of electrolyte disturbances, including hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and metabolic acidosis/alkalosis. Interpretation of laboratory results related to fluid and electrolyte balance. 7. Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders Management of endocrine emergencies, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoadrenocorticism, and hyperthyroidism crises. Interpretation of endocrine function tests. Administration of insulin and other endocrine therapies. Monitoring and management of metabolic disturbances associated with endocrine disorders. 8. Hemolymphatic and Immunologic Disorders Management of hematologic emergencies, including anemia, coagulopathies, and thrombocytopenia. Interpretation of complete blood counts and coagulation profiles. Management of immunologic emergencies, such as anaphylaxis and immune-mediated diseases. Administration of blood products and immunosuppressive therapies. 9. Neurologic System Assessment and management of neurologic emergencies, including seizures, head trauma, and intervertebral disc disease. Interpretation of neurologic examinations and diagnostic imaging. Administration of anticonvulsants and other neurologic medications. Assistance in neurosurgical procedures and post-operative care. 10. Musculoskeletal System Management of musculoskeletal emergencies, including fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries. Interpretation of radiographs and other imaging modalities. Implementation of splinting, bandaging, and other immobilization techniques. Assistance in orthopedic surgeries and post-operative rehabilitation. 11. Toxicology and Pharmacology Identification and management of common toxins and poisons in veterinary patients. Administration of antidotes and supportive care for toxic exposures. Understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in emergency and critical care settings. Calculation and administration of emergency medications. 12. Reproductive System Management of reproductive emergencies, including dystocia, pyometra, and eclampsia. Assistance in obstetric procedures and neonatal care. Interpretation of reproductive diagnostics, such as ultrasound and hormone assays. Implementation of supportive care for reproductive system disorders. 13. Miscellaneous, Triage, and Emergency Care Application of triage principles to prioritize patient care in emergency situations. Management of burns, ophthalmologic emergencies, envenomations, and environmental injuries. Care of exotic and avian species in emergency and critical care settings. Utilization of emergency equipment and technologies, including defibrillators, ventilators, and monitoring devices.