Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ultrasound machine for training?
How do we book?
How many people can you train at the same time?
What time does the training start and how long is it?
Can you do training in a non practice/non clinical setting?
Do we need to sedate the animals for scanning?
Can you assist in patient scans when visiting?
Can you help with emergencies on the day?
Do you need animals starved?
Can we scan cats and dogs?
Is fur clipping required?
What are your fees?
Yes, Training is best done on the ultrasound machine you have in practice. We can provide an additional ultrasound machine, for an additional scanning station if you have more than 3 people taking part.
Ideal numbers are 2-3 vets or RVNs. Up to 8 people can be trained in one day. If there are more than 6 people taking part, there may be additional costs due to the timing and logistics and additional trainers. Please contact us to make an enquiry.
Starting time can be anytime between 8.30am and 1pm to fit in with your practice needs. An In Practice training session is typically 5 hours long, but this can be extended if travel time allows.
Yes, we can arrange ultrasound training at a separate venue at your expense if required, but it often works best in a clinical setting.
We do not agree with sedating patients for training purposes. We follow the guidelines set out by AVMA to Replace, Reduce, Refine and Respect animals used for teaching purposes. If an animal is non compliant then we will not pursue sedation for teaching purposes. If you have a clinical case that requires sedation, then we may be able to assist your scan to make a diagnosis. Skill Vet Scan does NOT provide a visiting peripatetic ultrasound service.
USE OF ANIMALS IN EDUCATION
Skill Vet Scan do NOT provide a visiting peripatetic ultrasound service. Skill Vet Scan is a training company. The In Practice training day is used for teaching and development and while clinical cases may be used occasionally, it can detract from the training time available. There are other online services available to support with clinical assessment of cases, which we can point you to. If you have a clinical case, then we may be able to assist your scan to support you to make a diagnosis. As the attending vet, you remain responsible for all clinical decisions taken on the day.
Skill Vet Scan do NOT provide a visiting peripatetic ultrasound service, it is a training company. The training day is used for teaching and development and while clinical cases may be used occasionally, it can detract from the training time available. There are other online services available to support with clinical assessment of cases. If you have an unexpected emergency that requires attention, then this obviously takes priority and we may be able to assist your ultrasound scan to support you to make a diagnosis. As the attending vet, you remain responsible for all clinical decisions taken on the day.
Yes, ideally dogs and cats should not be given breakfast on the day of training. They will generally be more comfortable to be scanned on an empty stomach because there is less gas present in the abdominal tract. They can then be given treats while being scanned if required.
Yes, if you have relaxed, compliant animals, they can be used as models. We have even used guinea pigs! We endeavour to follow AVMA guidelines to reduce the impact of our training on animals in our care. (See link)
Yes, it is necessary to clip large areas of fur on the animals used for ultrasound training. Although spirit is sometimes used for scanning emergency patients, this can affect the probe quality in the longer term.
Prices start at £960 (plus travel), with no VAT for an Emergency Scanning course for up to 8 vets or vet nurses. Travel is charged at £0.45 per mile from our base in Knutsford, Cheshire.
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