This course builds on the foundation of the modules 'Animal Body' 'Function and Dysfunction' and 'Clinical Pharmacology/ Toxicology' and applies basic knowledge on physiology and pharmacology to the clinical areas of anaesthesia, pain management and fluid therapy.  This course provides a sound foundation for clinical rotations in later parts of the programme. A variety of pedagogical techniques are used, including lectures, demonstrations, cadaver and mannequin models, live animal practical, dry lab exercises and case discussions.

Anaesthesia is covered primarily using a sequential approach to performing an anaesthetic procedure, with a focus on drug protocols and choices, patient welfare and safety. Clinical reasoning skills are developed as more complex cases and situations as well as species differences between cats and dogs but also an overview of particularities of anesthesia regarding horses and farm animals. Clinical skills are developed within a range of laboratory sessions. One of the practical elements, performing anaesthesia of a cat for ovariohysterectomy, will allow students to consolidate their knowledge, understanding, and clinical skills up to this point in the programme.

Pain management is approached from a clinical view point to ensure students are equipped with skills to recognise and treat pain appropriately in a range of situations. Local anaesthesic techniques are both discussed and explored practically with cadavers to ensure students have a best-practice and evidenced based approach to multimodal analgesia. The use of objective and subjective pain assessment tools in a range of species ensure students are prepared to utilise a team-based approach to pain management.

This course further develops the student's awareness and skills for providing fluid therapy as part of a treatment plan in a range of clinical cases. Relevant physiology and pathophysiology are discussed and treatment options introduced with emphasis on the fluid therapy plan. Lectures will be supported with laboratory sessions to develop clinical skills.