Join us for an unforgettable experience at our annual Western Slope Event in Grand Junction! Get ready to immerse yourself in a dynamic gathering of veterinary professionals against the stunning backdrop of the Grand Junctions' breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting your journey in the field, this event promises to offer something for everyone. Please join us on October 12th, at CMU Tech (formally Western Colorado Community College) for 6 hours of high-quality CE.
There will be 3 hours of lecture from 8:30am to 11:20am, followed by a 1 hour lunch-break from 11:30 to 12:30. Lecture will resume for three more hours from 12:30pm to 3:20pm. There will also be a limited enrollment session (see schedule below) happening simultaneously from 8:30-11:20am and another from 12:30p-3:20p.
Lecture Schedule
Treatment 101: Using Kirby's Rule of 20
You’ve taken a patient from triage to hospitalization, now what? This lecture will help you delve into the critical thinking of patient care and lead you to understanding the “why” of treatment using Kirby’s Rule of 20.
Part I: This section is perfusion based; covering fluid balance, electrolytes, the heart, oxygenation methods and an overview of shock. (Elliott, 8:30a-9:30a)
Part II: This section is focused on cellular function; covering red blood cells, the coagulation cascade, transfusions, renal & GI function, and the basics of nutrition. (Elliott 9:30a-10:30a)
Part III: The final section is nursing care forward; covering wound management, the immune system & antibiotics, drug dosing & analgesia and a recap of common CRI medical math. (Elliott, 10:30a-11:30a)
"Don't Eat That!"
This course is a dynamic and informative session designed for veterinary technicians, focusing on the common toxins encountered in emergency settings. This lecture will cover a range of toxic substances, from household items to plants and foods, that pets are often exposed to. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on identifying signs of toxicity, understanding the pathophysiology of common poisons, and exploring effective treatment options. (Prewitt, 12:30p-1:20p)
Shock
This lecture aims to equip veterinary technicians with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage shock in veterinary patients. It covers the pathophysiology of shock, explores various clinical types—hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, and obstructive—and discusses key nursing care practices, including monitoring and early intervention. Attendees will learn essential treatment protocols to stabilize patients, enhancing care in emergency situations. (Prewitt, 1:30p-2:20p)
The Reinvented Role for Colorado's Vet Techs
With the changes to the Veterinary Practice Act in August 2024, the role of veterinary technicians continues to advance and evolve. Join CACVT's Executive Director for a review of the latest scope of practice expansions and a look forward to the rulemaking process. (Henninger, 2:30-3:20)
Limited Enrollment Lab Schedule (additional registration fee $20 each)
Common Technical Skills in the ER (3 hours) SOLD OUT
This wet lab is designed for veterinary technicians seeking to enhance their proficiency in essential emergency procedures. The session begins with a 1-hour lecture and slide presentation covering the proper techniques for skills such as placing nasogastric (NG) tubes, central lines, and urinary catheters. The presentation will also delve into common complications, risk factors, and troubleshooting tips for each procedure. Following the lecture, participants will engage in a 2-hour hands-on lab, working in small groups to practice and refine these critical skills under expert guidance. This lab is ideal for technicians aiming to increase their confidence and competence in emergency care settings. (Prewitt, 8:30a-11:30a)
CPR Crash Course (3 hours) SOLD OUT
Hour 1: How to CPR- Learn the basics of CPR following guidelines set forth by experts in the field. Know how to confidently become part of the team during a code, what roles need to be filled, and how you can contribute to the best rounds possible.
Hour 2: CPR Crash Lab- Attendees of this choose-your-own-adventure style lab will practice running a code on mannequins. Instructors will be letting participants know if therapies are effective and using flash images of multiparameter monitor values to help teams dictate what to do next in their CPR rounds.
Hour 3: Post CPA, What now?- You’ve just had a long but successful (yay!) CPR session, now what? Attendees will learn a post-CPA algorithm covering how to optimize oxygenation, protect the brain and obtain cardiovascular homeostasis once the compressions stop. We will also cover the less exciting, but crucial, subject of how to properly debrief with your team after CPR. (Elliott, 12:30p-3:30p)
Session notes are for registered attedees only. You will need to log into your profile to access.
Meet our Speakers
Casey Elliott, RVT, VTS (ECC)
Casey graduated from Bel-Rea in 2011 and launched into her career head first with a special interest in emergency medicine. In 2019 she obtained the National Veterinary Associates CVT of the year award as well as the Above and Beyond award for her work within and outside of the veterinary community promoting animal welfare. In early 2021, after working through a pandemic alongside her fellow healthcare heroes, Casey became an ad hoc volunteer with the CACVT and helped launch the campaign for technician title protection that was accepted into Colorado law in 2023. With her passion for emergency medicine, Casey obtained her VTS (ECC) in late 2023 and has goals of bringing advanced education to the next generation of vet techs. She believes in driving individual growth among veterinary personnel and educating the community to advance the field.
Amber Prewitt, RVT
Amber is a Colorado native that grew up with a passion for animals. She owned everything from cats to rodents to reptiles. She loved watching Emergency Vets on Animal Planet (and was thrilled when her father was able to get an autograph from Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald on a menu at a local comedy club). She graduated from Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology in 2012, and despite having no prior veterinary experience, she knew emergency medicine was for her. After completing an internship at Northside Emergency Pet Clinic, she worked in GP for 6 months before quickly returning to ER medicine. She has worked at Colorado Animal Specialty & Emergency (formerly Alpenglow) since 2012, and currently works both as a floor lead and the emergency department Training and Development Coordinator.
