MS Vet Tech flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Cranial vs caudal

Cranial means toward the head; caudal means toward the tail. These directional terms orient structures along the body axis and are used in anatomy and surgery descriptions.

Dorsal vs ventral

Dorsal refers to the back or spine side of the body; ventral refers to the belly side. They describe position relative to the vertebral column and are standard anatomical orientation terms.

-ectomy suffix meaning

The suffix -ectomy denotes surgical removal of a structure, as in splenectomy (removal of the spleen). It is distinct from -otomy (incision) and -ostomy (opening/stoma creation).

BID, TID, SID

BID means twice daily, TID means three times daily, and SID means once daily. These Latin-derived abbreviations appear on prescriptions and treatment sheets and guide medication scheduling.

Normal canine temperature

The normal rectal temperature for an adult dog is approximately 37.5 to 39.2 degrees Celsius (99.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit). Values outside this range warrant clinical evaluation.

Lung lobe count

Dogs and cats have four right lung lobes (cranial, middle, caudal, accessory) and two left lung lobes (cranial, caudal). The accessory lobe lies within the mediastinum.

Cephalic venipuncture restraint

For cephalic venipuncture, hold the patient in lateral or sternal recumbency with the forelimb extended and occlude the vein proximally. Use the least restraint that allows safe access.

Muzzle contraindications

Never muzzle a dyspneic, vomiting, or brachycephalic patient, as this can worsen airway compromise. Muzzles are for dogs with adequate respiratory status only.

Rabbit restraint caution

Rabbits must have their hindquarters supported during handling; lifting by the scruff alone can cause spinal fracture or hindlimb paralysis. Use a towel wrap for short procedures.

CRT assessment

Capillary refill time is measured by pressing the gingival mucosa and timing color return; normal is under 2 seconds. Prolonged CRT suggests poor perfusion or shock.

IV catheter care

Flush catheters with heparinized saline per protocol, secure with tape and bandage, and monitor for phlebitis signs such as swelling, pain, and heat. Replace per clinic schedule.

Maintenance fluid rate

Approximate maintenance fluid rates are 50 to 60 mL/kg/day for dogs and 40 to 60 mL/kg/day for cats. Monitor for overhydration signs including serous nasal discharge and chemosis.

Anesthetic triad

Balanced anesthesia combines hypnosis, analgesia, and muscle relaxation. Using multiple agents at lower doses reduces individual drug side effects and improves safety.

Propofol use

Propofol is a rapid-onset intravenous induction agent with brief duration. It is given IV only and can cause apnea, so airway support and monitoring must be immediately available.

NSAID contraindications

NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with renal disease, GI ulceration, or dehydration. Concurrent use with corticosteroids increases gastrointestinal ulceration risk.

Enrofloxacin caution

Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that can damage cartilage in growing animals and is generally avoided in juveniles. It is also used cautiously in MDR1-mutant dogs.

Dose calculation formula

Dose in milliliters equals (dose in mg/kg multiplied by body weight in kg) divided by drug concentration in mg/mL. Always convert units before calculating to avoid dosing errors.

ALARA principle

ALARA means keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. Use collimation, lead aprons, thyroid shields, and dosimetry badges to protect personnel during radiography.

EDTA tube use

EDTA (purple-top) tubes are used for complete blood counts because EDTA chelates calcium and prevents clotting. They are not appropriate for serum chemistry panels.

Urine specific gravity

Urine specific gravity is measured with a refractometer and reflects the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. Values near 1.008 to 1.012 suggest isosthenuria and impaired concentrating ability.

Body condition score

Body condition score uses a 9-point scale where 1 is emaciated and 9 is obese. Ideal is 4 to 5 out of 9, with ribs palpable but not visible and a visible waist.

Toxic foods list

Chocolate (theobromine), grapes and raisins (renal failure), onions and garlic (hemolytic anemia), xylitol (hypoglycemia), and macadamia nuts are common toxic foods for pets.

Core canine vaccines

Core canine vaccines include rabies, distemper, adenovirus-2, parvovirus, and parainfluenza. Core feline vaccines include rabies and FVRCP (herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia).

CPR compression rate

Chest compressions during CPR are delivered at 100 to 120 per minute. The compression-to-ventilation ratio is 30:2 for one rescuer and 15:2 for two rescuers.

Anaphylaxis treatment

Anaphylaxis is treated with epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg IV or IM), fluid support, and antihistamines such as diphenhydramine. Corticosteroids are used as adjuncts, not first-line.

GDV emergency

Gastric dilatation-volvulus requires urgent decompression via trocarization or stomach tube, fluid resuscitation, and surgery. Delay significantly increases mortality from shock and necrosis.

Canine dental formula

The permanent canine dental formula is 42 teeth: incisors 3/3, canines 1/1, premolars 4/4, and molars 2/3 per side. Cats have 30 permanent teeth.

Tooth resorption in cats

Feline tooth resorption is a common painful condition causing enamel and dentin loss. Treatment often requires extraction or crown amputation with radiographs to confirm diagnosis.

Veterinary practice act

State veterinary practice acts define the legal scope of practice for veterinarians and technicians. Technicians work under direct or indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

DEA CII storage

Schedule II controlled substances require secure locked storage, a perpetual inventory log, and no refills. Both federal DEA and state regulations must be followed.

Informed consent

Informed consent requires the owner to understand risks, benefits, alternatives, and costs before a procedure. Consent should be documented in writing in the medical record.

OSHA exposure control

OSHA requires a written exposure control plan, hazard communication program, PPE, sharps injury log, and annual staff training in veterinary practices.