Doctor Gaius O'Brian Veterinary

Doctor Gaius O'Brian Veterinary Passionate veterinarian dedicated to the wellbeing of animals.With 25yrs of experience in vet Surgery
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11/18/2024

When was the last time you did a skills audit?

Every now and then I like to have a think of what equipment we use in the clinic that I don’t know how to use, what animals I’m not fully comfortable anaesthetising and what skill i haven’t yet mastered and write them down.

I then set the task for myself to read up on that skill, ask my supervisor to show me or read the manual so that going forward I feel I can comfortably incorporate this new skill set into my work.

The veterinary industry is constantly changing and it can be very easy to get left behind if we don’t adapt to take on new tasks or work with new equipment.

Do you feel you fully understand how to use the capnograph?
Do you automatically put all patients on 2l/min of O2? Why?
Do you see rabbits in your clinic but don’t fully understand how to minimise the risks associated with GA?
Do you know which blood tube to fill first and why?

These are just some of the questions I found I was asking myself when I did my first skills audit years ago.

One of my favorite parts of this job is that we never stop learning 🥰

11/16/2024

Who can relate to this sign at .moorooka? 🤣🐈

During a lengthy procedure or surgery, here are some tips for ensuring you remain focused, comfortable and alert.⁣⁣Minim...
11/15/2024

During a lengthy procedure or surgery, here are some tips for ensuring you remain focused, comfortable and alert.⁣
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Minimised Distractions:⁣
- Environment Control: Ensure the operating room is set with optimal lighting and temperature for comfort and focus.⁣
- Quiet Zone: Limit unnecessary chatter and noise in the operating area. Effective, concise communication is key during the procedure.⁣
Scheduled Short Breaks:⁣
- Strategic Timing: Plan for short, mindful breaks, especially during lengthy procedures. Use this time to stretch, adjust your posture, hydrate, or simply close your eyes briefly to rest.⁣
- Delegate: Whilst you take a break, have a trusted colleague or assistant keep an eye on the patient, ensuring continuous monitoring.⁣
Effective Delegation and Teamwork:⁣
- Team Coordination: Work seamlessly with your surgical team. Know each member's role and responsibilities, fostering a collaborative environment.⁣
- Trust and Delegate: Empower team members by entrusting them with tasks they are qualified to handle, thereby reducing your mental load.⁣
Mental Techniques for Focus:⁣
- Breathing Techniques: Practise deep, controlled breathing to maintain calm and focus. This helps in reducing anxiety and keeping your hands steady.⁣
- Mindful Practices: Engage in moment-to-moment awareness, staying present and attentive to each surgical step without being overwhelmed.⁣
Equipment Familiarity:⁣
- Know Your Tools: Being well-acquainted with each instrument and device minimises confusion and promotes efficiency during surgery.⁣
- Organised Workspace: An orderly, logical arrangement of surgical tools and equipment contributes to a smoother workflow and lessens stress.⁣
Continuous Monitoring:⁣
- Patient Status: Keep a vigilant eye on the patient’s vital signs and overall status. Quick recognition and response to changes are imperative.⁣
- Self-Check: Regularly assess your own physical and mental state. Acknowledge signs of fatigue or stress and address them promptly.⁣
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Each surgeon might develop their personalised set of practices over time, so it's essential to be reflective and adaptive in this continuous learning process.

Engaging in long surgeries can be mentally and physically taxing. One of the longest I have performed was 8 hours. Altho...
11/15/2024

Engaging in long surgeries can be mentally and physically taxing. One of the longest I have performed was 8 hours. Although you may not think it, surgery actually starts well before we enter the operating theatre. Below are some preparation tips to help you stay focused and alert during lengthy procedures:⁣
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Physical Preparation:⁣
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Engage in regular exercise, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure adequate sleep.⁣
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration.⁣
- Comfortable Attire: Wear supportive and comfortable shoes, and consider compression stockings to promote blood circulation.⁣
Mental Preparation:⁣
- Develop a Pre-Surgery Routine: Establish rituals that help you relax and focus, like deep breathing or meditation.⁣
- Visualisation: Visualise the surgery steps and anticipate potential challenges.⁣
- Think of the procedures you have performed before that have similar aspects, so you can draw from those experiences. ⁣
- Positive Affirmations: Repeat positive thoughts or mantras to build confidence and calmness.⁣
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Next post I will share some tips for keeping alert during a long surgery.

After years performing lingual surgery on cats like Whiskers, I've learned a few helpful techniques to share with new ve...
11/14/2024

After years performing lingual surgery on cats like Whiskers, I've learned a few helpful techniques to share with new vets attempting tongue laceration repairs:⁣
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First, having the right instruments is key. Use small, fine needle drivers and forceps for delicate handling of the tongue tissue. Absorbable sutures like 4-0 or 5-0 Vicryl work well to avoid the need for stitch removal.⁣
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Second, maintain a calm, patient approach throughout the procedure. The tongue has an extensive blood supply and bleeds readily, which can be stressful. Work slowly and with care to tie off any bleeders before closing the laceration.⁣
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Use loupe magnification to visualize the small structures. Proper lighting and tissue handling is imperative for a smooth repair. I prefer simple interrupted sutures for good knot security.⁣
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Finally, allow adequate post-op healing time. Feed the patient a soft recovery diet to avoid stress on the repair. Apply Elizabethan collars to prevent self-trauma. Monitor swelling, bleeding and suture reactions closely.⁣
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With proper technique and practice, new vets can become adept at these sensitive surgeries. It's incredibly rewarding to see positive outcomes like Whiskers' and know we've made a difference in that pet's quality of life.

Tag anyone who would find these tips helpful!

Tackling tough cases is part of our job. Sometimes you can have had the worst outcome and feel totally defeated, however...
11/14/2024

Tackling tough cases is part of our job. Sometimes you can have had the worst outcome and feel totally defeated, however you NEED TO SNAP BACK and be responsible for how you are in the next room regardless of how you felt previously. I get it this can be tough, and it will take time and consistent practice, but there are some things that I do that works and brings my energy back and helps be feel recharged. ⁣
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If you have time take a minute and breathe and get present. Then make a COMMITMENT TO BE MORE .....⁣⁣⁣
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More ENERGISED⁣
More PRESENT⁣
More LISTENING⁣⁣⁣
More HONESTY⁣
More EMPATHY in your next consult. ⁣⁣⁣
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Experiment with different triggers and techniques to find something that works for you. Here’s a a few ways to bounce back and stay sharp for every next consult and patient!⁣
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- Breathe & Refocus: A deep breath can reset your mind. Practice mindfulness to stay present!⁣
- Take Five: After a difficult case, step away for a moment. A short break can do wonders for your focus.⁣
- Talk it Out: Share experiences with colleagues. We’ve all been there, and support is crucial!⁣
- Stay Active: Quick stretch, few squats or walk?! Physical activity can boost your mood instantly.⁣
- Positive Vibes: Remind yourself of your achievements and the positive impact you make every day.⁣
- Avoid Self-Blame: Every case is a learning opportunity. Reflect, learn, and avoid harsh self-critique.⁣
- Do What You Love: Engage in a hobby or interest briefly to rejuvenate.⁣
Remember: Self-care isn’t selfish! Prioritising your mental health is key for providing the best care to our patients.

The MiniVet Guide Calculator! But, this is not just your average calculator; it's a comprehensive clinical companion des...
11/14/2024

The MiniVet Guide Calculator! But, this is not just your average calculator; it's a comprehensive clinical companion designed to boost your confidence in handling critical cases, all while saving precious time and improving patient outcomes. ⁣
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Whether you're a Veterinarian, Veterinary Student, or Veterinary Nurse, this app is designed to elevate your clinical practice and personal veterinary journey. ⁣
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Watch this space!! 👀

Whiskers arrived with a traumatic and extensive laceration to the tongue, resulting in a bifurcation of the organ. This ...
11/14/2024

Whiskers arrived with a traumatic and extensive laceration to the tongue, resulting in a bifurcation of the organ. This severe injury had compromised her ability to ingest nourishment and caused considerable discomfort.⁣
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Upon examination, it was evident that immediate surgical intervention was necessary. The complexity of the surgery was not underestimated, given the intricate nature of the tongue with its muscular, nervous, and vascular components.⁣
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In a systematic approach, the repair involved meticulous suturing techniques to coapt the edges, ensuring the preservation of function and promoting optimal healing. Throughout the surgery, the team remained focused on minimising tissue trauma and maintaining vascular supply to enhance recovery prospects.⁣
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This case underscores the importance of swift and precise surgical action in trauma cases involving delicate oral structures. We advocate for a thorough assessment and prompt, skilful treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for our feline patients. Check out my next post for a post op photo and some tips.

Understanding Canine Ingestive Behaviours!⁣⁣This is still once of the most satisfying x-rays I have seen of a swallowed ...
11/14/2024

Understanding Canine Ingestive Behaviours!⁣
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This is still once of the most satisfying x-rays I have seen of a swallowed object. Why do dogs occasionally ingest objects inadvertently? This could be due to::⁣
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- Rapid Ingestion Instincts: Accelerated consumption often leads to whole ingestion without thorough mastication.⁣
- Dentition Design: Canine teeth are primed for tearing, not extensive chewing, facilitating whole object swallowing.⁣
- Compulsive Gulping: Anxiety or heightened excitement may induce rapid, indiscriminate ingestion.⁣
- Poor Discriminative Faculty: Dogs may lack precise discernment between edible and inedible items.⁣
- Subdued Gustatory Sensitivity: With a sensory hierarchy favoring olfaction and vision, taste is secondary, possibly leading to inadvertent swallowing.⁣
- Predatory Inheritance: Domestic dogs might still harbour wild instincts, ingesting prey whole.⁣
Preventive Measures To Advise Owners:⁣
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- Exercise vigilant supervision during feeding and play sessions.⁣
- Incorporate behavioural training commands such as “drop it” or “leave it.”⁣
- Opt for durable, safe toys minimising ingestion risk.⁣
- Foster a serene feeding ambiance for anxiety-prone canines.⁣
Immediate veterinary intervention is imperative if inadvertent harmful ingestion occurs, with symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to abdominal discomfort and behavioural anomalies.

Let's talk about the ultimate goal: achieving a harmonious balance between your professional and personal personas. That...
11/14/2024

Let's talk about the ultimate goal: achieving a harmonious balance between your professional and personal personas. That balance we all crave!!!⁣
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So, how do you strike this delicate balance? Is it even possible to be a dedicated veterinary professional without sacrificing your personal life? The answer is YES, but it requires some intentional effort, clarity and lots of focus!⁣
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- Time Management: Allocate specific times for work and personal activities. Stick to these as much as possible to avoid one encroaching on the other. If gym, date night, time with the kids or a club is incredibly important to you, then schedule that first!! Also communicate clearly your boundaries!⁣
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- Mindfulness: Be fully present in whatever you're doing. When you're at work, focus on your professional responsibilities. When you're off the clock, give your personal life the attention it deserves. It isn't about allocating equal amounts of time, it is a bout being fully present and engaged in that time.⁣
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- Flexibility: Life is unpredictable. There will be times when the boundaries between your professional and personal life blur. The key is to adapt and recalibrate as needed.⁣
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- Self-Care: Never underestimate the power of taking care of yourself. A well-rested, healthy individual performs better in both professional and personal spheres. Know your warning signs of exhaustion and frustration!⁣
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- Seek Support: Whether it's a mentor at work or a supportive partner at home, don't hesitate to seek advice and share your challenges.⁣
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Remember, the goal isn't to keep your professional and personal personas entirely separate but to allow them to coexist in a way that enriches your life as a whole.⁣
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This journey to balancing your professional and personal personas is a continuous one, and there is no finish line, it will take continuous work as you and your life and career evolve. But with intentional effort, it's a journey well worth taking.⁣
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Keep striving for that perfect balance, and remember: you've got this! ❤️

Two months of hard work . And i am back with a tired face! And I miss taking photos and you all my followers . I have be...
10/08/2024

Two months of hard work . And i am back with a tired face! And I miss taking photos and you all my followers . I have been working on a project .

Unlike Harry Potter, there is nothing magical about my wand - in veterinary medicine it is a procedure we try to avoid using as much as possible. In my experience, there usually is a much better solution! haha

STAY TUNED , IM OFF TO SLEEP 💤

Icteric Serum Tips:⁣⁣How I tackle the patient that comes in yellow!⁣⁣Jaudice is broken down into pre-hepatic, hepatic an...
07/14/2024

Icteric Serum Tips:⁣
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How I tackle the patient that comes in yellow!⁣
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Jaudice is broken down into pre-hepatic, hepatic and post-hepatic causes. I use a simple guideline to help me narrow down the which one is most likely.⁣
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This then helps guide my next round of diagnostic and my initial management plan.⁣
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It is important to note that NOT all patients follow this guideline.⁣
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Pre-hepatic:⁣
Caused be excessive destruction of red blood cells (haemolysis) therefore the PCV should be low eg. PCV in cats

Often when we see a challenge our instinct is to think that they are too much or too hard or even impossible … however o...
06/27/2024

Often when we see a challenge our instinct is to think that they are too much or too hard or even impossible … however over the years I have developed the skill to see it from a different perspective. 🤔⁣
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You will have challenges that are worthy of your skills, knowledge, time and resilience… because if it wasn't hard or scary it would not be a challenge. Aaaaaannnnnnd you know that growth and progression ONLY come from doing hard things!⁣
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So if you come across something that is hard or difficult - then it is hard and difficult for a reason - it is meant for you, it is telling you that you need to get through this to develop the skills and knowledge to go to the next level of you.⁣
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You should consider it as a challenge that is “worthy” of your time to develop your talents, skills and knowledge. The future you will thank you.⁣
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What challenge could you take on today? Say yes to trying that procedure, say yes to that consult, pick up the phone, apply for the job, try that surgery. Challenges will propel you forward and allow you to reach your potential..

and

What would you diagnose? THINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS WHAT THEY SEEM. 🤔⁣⁣This cat came in for a witnessed bite in the face for...
06/27/2024

What would you diagnose? THINGS ARE NOT ALWAYS WHAT THEY SEEM. 🤔⁣
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This cat came in for a witnessed bite in the face for stealing the dogs food. When examined, there were no bite marks, but the entire cornea was ulcerated. This is an example of why taking a comprehensive history is so important.⁣
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Turned out they bathed the cat 1 hour before the dog bite. To me the complete ulceration was due to soap in the eye, and not a tooth....

Cats are the ultimate SLEEP MASTERS. 🐈 They love to sneak and slip into small spaces like boxes, dresser drawers, bathro...
05/30/2024

Cats are the ultimate SLEEP MASTERS. 🐈 They love to sneak and slip into small spaces like boxes, dresser drawers, bathroom cabinets, suitcases, bags, wardrobes, or closet corners where they feel cozy, hidden and secure. They may even prefer these places to a comfy pet bed - how many comfy cushions and beds have you purchased, and they ignore them and go and sleep on something else. 😆 This behavior can be traced back to their wildcat ancestors that would sleep safely hidden away to help avoid predators and dangers.⁣⁣
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Does your cat sleep in a strange place?

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Hello 👋 Youngvet And AnimalsLover.. Happy Easter to you all . Dr Alex and I discuss how do you deal with financial challenges in a business. This was a question we were asked at a recent Live At vetsuccessacademy Q&A!

#weekendfact from @ thevetvault⁣ ⁣ Managing your patients clinically - keeping them alive, keeping them healthy, getting them home - that's a challenge, right? But for me the REAL challenge starts when I have to sit down to do the notes!⁣ ⁣ Hands up if you agree... 🙋‍♀️⁣ ⁣ We did an episode with ECE specialist Dr Cary Hemlgrn FULL of tips on making your clinical record keeping as smooth and pain free as possible on our emergency critical care clinical podcasts - try it out for free at DM ME NOW

My new hobby! Introducing George! 🐍

I did a snake 🐍 surgery 😳

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