Master of Veterinary Medicine in Anaesthesiology

The first purpose of this qualification is to gain knowledge and experience in anaesthesia to a level of competence that leads to registration as a specialist veterinary anaesthesiologist with the South African Veterinary Council. As a specialist veterinary anaesthesiologist, the incumbent should be able to provide anaesthetic care and services to a wide range of animal species to an impeccable standard. Society gains specialist clinicians capable of ensuring the welfare of animals.

The second purpose is to provide the skills, knowledge and practical experience to teach anaesthesiology to pre-graduate veterinary students and nurses and postgraduate honours and masters students in the art and science of anaesthesiology. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered, ensuring continued self-development in the discipline.

The third purpose of this degree is to provide an understanding of research methodology and gain practical research experience through the completion of a dissertation. With this knowledge a contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge can be made through active research and the support of research projects by the provision of anaesthetic service and advice on the suitability of anaesthetic protocols.

The fourth purpose of this degree is to provide a basis with which to contemplate further doctorate studies in the discipline of anaesthesia or any other related discipline.

Matriculation certificate

First degree: B V Sc

Other

The official language of instruction is English and competency in English is required. An English competency test may be requested. Adequate clinical competence is required and may be demonstrated through appropriate clinical experience or a clinical competency test.

Registration with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) to practice as a Veterinarian is a minimum requirement as this degree leads to specialist registration with the SAVC. Any degree, which the SAVC recognises to practice veterinary science, will be considered as minimum requirement.

Learning outcomes

1. Anaesthetise patients without undue risk.
2. Add scientific knowledge to the field of anaesthesia and demonstrate an ability to initiate, undertake and complete research.
3. Obtain in-depth knowledge in the field of veterinary anaesthesia.
4. Act professionally and ethically.
5. Demonstrate continued interest in new developments and research in the discipline of veterinary anaesthesiology.

Critical cross-field outcomes

1. The veterinary anaesthesiologist may assist in the field of human anaesthesia through the development of safe anaesthetic techniques and drugs and the solving of complex problems through research and co-operation with professional colleagues.
2. The veterinary anaesthesiologist may be an invaluable aid on ethical or animal use committees involved in the use of research animals specifically related to issues of analgesia and anaesthesia of research animals.
3. Work effectively in a team to ensure the welfare and the most effective treatment of patients.
4. Assist in the continued professional development of veterinarians in private practice.

One

1. Evaluate the anaesthetic risk of a patient.
2. Formulate an anaesthetic protocol.
3. Practical anaesthesia of companion animals, production animals and exotic animals taking into account a variety of clinical conditions and procedures to be performed.

Two

1. Publication of research undertaken in a peer reviewed scientific journal. Presentation at a scientific congress is strongly recommended.
2. A written dissertation that is acceptable to peer review and internal assessors.

Three

1. Pass appropriate ancillary subjects under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
2. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge in anaesthesia by passing written, practical and oral examinations under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
3. Complete a literature study that is up-to-date, appropriate and relevant to the research topic.
4. Critically evaluate literature in light of current understanding.

Four

1. Take responsibility and treat clinical cases within accepted professional norms.
2. Communicate and co-operate with fellow staff members with regards to the welfare of patients.

Five

Demonstrate ability to debate and perform techniques reported in relevant, appropriate and current literature.

Integrated assessment

Portfolios

Work-place assessments

Written examinations

Oral examinations

Other

Portfolio

• A dissertation acceptable to peer review
• Journal article accepted to a peer reviewed scientific journal.
• Completion of 25 Case Studies
• Seminars based on current research, literature or relevant topics.

Formative Assessment

• Continual assessment and monitoring of the candidate during clinical work and studies while under the supervision of a registered specialist veterinary anaesthesiology and senior clinical personnel. Feedback is given to the candidate on a continual basis.

Summative Assessment

• Portfolio work that has been completed and assessed by assessors and moderators.
• Written, oral and practical examinations occur at predetermined intervals and at the end of the period of study. These examinations are set to cover theoretical knowledge, clinical/practical skills and acquired experience.