VCNA September 2023

Question 1

A critically ill bearded dragon presents in cardiopulmonary arrest. Which of the following CPR techniques is most appropriate to initiate?
A. Lateral chest compressions with the patient in lateral recumbency
B. Sternal compressions with the patient in dorsal recumbency
C. Circumferential compressions using one hand around the chest

Answer 1

B. Sternal compressions with the patient in dorsal recumbency

Question 2

A rabbit presents with prolonged bleeding after venipuncture and lab tests reveal thrombocytopenia. Which of the following is a likely contributing factor?
A. Hyperestrogenism
B. Hypovitaminosis D
C. Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection

Answer 2

A. Hyperestrogenism

Question 3

Which neurologic finding in a snake with CNS disease would most likely be observed during a neurologic exam?
A. Menace response
B. Righting reflex deficit caudal to lesion
C. Palpebral reflex

Answer 3

B. Righting reflex deficit caudal to lesion

Question 4

Which fluid therapy principle should guide resuscitation in a hypovolemic snake?
A. Administer IV isotonic crystalloid boluses at 20 mL/kg
B. Rely on rapid plasma refill via interstitial mobilization
C. Use hypertonic saline to induce vascular fluid shifts

Answer 4

B. Rely on rapid plasma refill via interstitial mobilization

Question 5

What is a major clinical use of POCUS in the emergency care of a guinea pig with abdominal distension?
A. Measurement of cardiac ejection fraction
B. Diagnosis of uterine adenocarcinoma
C. Visualization of hepatic lipidosis

Answer 5

B. Diagnosis of uterine adenocarcinoma

Question 6

In a ferret with suspected AKI and severe azotemia, which diagnostic finding most supports intrinsic renal damage?
A. Isosthenuria with granular casts
B. Hypoglycemia and hypothermia
C. Elevated symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA)

Answer 6

A. Isosthenuria with granular casts

Question 7

Which pre-anesthetic consideration is most critical for an ill guinea pig undergoing a surgical procedure?
A. Fast for 12 hours prior to anesthesia
B. Ensure glycopyrrolate is available due to atropinesterase presence
C. Monitor glucose and temperature due to high metabolic rate

Answer 7

C. Monitor glucose and temperature due to high metabolic rate

Question 8

Nutritional support for a cachectic bearded dragon should begin when?
A. After weight has stabilized for 48 hours
B. Once cardiovascular stability is achieved
C. Only after oral intake is voluntarily resumed

Answer 8

B. Once cardiovascular stability is achieved

Question 9

In a hypothermic rabbit undergoing critical care, which of the following is most likely associated with poor prognosis?
A. Increased respiratory rate
B. Body temperature <38°C on presentation
C. Tympanic temperature variation of 1°C

Answer 9

B. Body temperature <38°C on presentation