MR. PACE VET ASSISTING Veterinary Diagnostics

At the completion of this unit, students will be able to: A. List common diagnostic procedures used in the veterinary setting B. Demonstrate how to use a microscope C. Describe and demonstrate the use of hematology in veterinary diagnostics D. Describe and demonstrate the use of cytology in veterinary diagnostics E. Describe the purpose and function of the kidneys and perform a urinalysis F. Describe and demonstrate the use of imaging equipment in the veterinary setting G. Describe and demonstrate diagnostic procedures used to identify parasites

What methods have we learned so far to diagnose illness? Other than recognizing symptoms, what type of tests can we do to diagnose disease ?

Common Diagnostic Procedures Blood Testing  Disease tests (positive/negative)  Blood Panels

Common Diagnostic Procedures Imaging Procedures  X-Rays  Ultrasounds

Common Diagnostic Procedures Urinalysis  Dipstick  Look at cells under microscope

Common Diagnostic Procedures Culturing  Bacterial Culture  Fungal Culture

Common Diagnostic Procedures Cytology  Study of Cells  Study the cells from a sample or smear

Using a Microscope Parts of the microscope

Using a Microscope Remember:  Use the proper magnification  Scan slide thoroughly  Use course adjustment then fine adjustment  Don’t push the lens through the slide

Hematology The Study of Blood  Hematologist – One who studies blood  Works in a laboratory

Hematology Components of blood  60% Plasma  Cells  Erythrocytes (red blood cells)  Leukocytes (white blood cells)  Platelets

Hematology Where is blood usually drawn?

Hematology Blood Collection Tubes  Tiger Top  Has gel in the bottom for serum separation

Hematology Blood Collection Tube  Lavender Top  Has heparin to stop blood from clotting

Hematology Blood Collection Tubes  Hematocrit Tubes

Hematology Spin in a centrifuge  Separates blood cells from plasma  Always counter balance every tube you spin!

Hematology Blood Smear  A thin layer of blood smeared on a microscopic slide  Allows you to see the blood cells and look for abnormalities

Hematology Blood Smear  RBC’s  A few WBC’s

Hematology Blood Smear  Sickle Cell Anemia