Chapter Tips and Tricks
Achieving membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (VECC) is a rewarding milestone. Here’s your ultimate toolkit for success:
📖 1. Know the Exam Blueprint
The exam includes two papers, with both short-answer and case-based questions.
Review past exam papers to identify recurring patterns and high-yield topics.
Expect scenarios involving trauma, shock, toxins, respiratory emergencies, and advanced critical care management.
Action Tip: Organize topics into chapters: Shock, Neurology, Trauma, Toxins, Sepsis, and Fluid Therapy.
📚 2. Build a Strong Knowledge Foundation
Core Textbooks:
Small Animal Critical Care Medicine by Silverstein & Hopper
Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Manual by Kirby & Linklater
Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine by Ettinger & Feldman
Journals: Stay updated with Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (JVECC).
Action Tip: Summarize key takeaways from each textbook chapter in your own words.
🗂️ 3. Create a Study Plan and Stick to It
Start Early: Ideally, 6–12 months before the exam.
Set Goals: Divide your syllabus by months and weeks.
Practice Weekly: Dedicate time to answer past paper questions.
Action Tip: Use timed mock exams to simulate real exam conditions.
🩹 4. Master Core Topics
Focus on high-yield areas:
Shock and Fluid Therapy: Types of shock, resuscitation strategies
Respiratory Distress and ARDS: Oxygen supplementation, ventilator management
Toxicology: NSAIDs, pyrethrins, chocolate toxicity
Neurology: Traumatic brain injury, seizures, intracranial pressure
Sepsis and SIRS: Diagnosis and management
Action Tip: Create flashcards for key drug mechanisms and emergency protocols.
🧠 5. Practice Clinical Reasoning
Develop structured answers:
Problem List → Differential Diagnoses → Diagnostics → Treatment → Monitoring
For case-based questions, always justify your choices【68†source】.
Action Tip: Practice verbalizing your reasoning with a study buddy or mentor.
⏳ 6. Time Management is Key
In exams, allocate specific time for each question.
Don’t get stuck on challenging scenarios; move on and return later.
Write concise, structured answers.
Action Tip: Practice timed sessions using past papers.
🩸 7. Understand Key Procedures
CPR: Techniques, medications, and post-resuscitation care
Fluid Therapy: Calculations for maintenance, deficit correction, and shock
Diagnostics: Blood gas analysis, ECG interpretation, ultrasound (POCUS)
Triage and Stabilization: Prioritizing critical patients
Action Tip: Create quick-reference cheat sheets for common procedures.
🧪 8. Know Your Drugs
Familiarize yourself with:
Vasopressors and Inotropes: Adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine
Anticonvulsants: Diazepam, levetiracetam
Hyperosmolar Therapies: Mannitol, hypertonic saline
Action Tip: Know drug dosages, mechanisms of action, and contraindications.
📊 9. Data Interpretation
Be confident with interpreting lab results: Blood gases, electrolyte panels, urinalysis, and imaging.
Spot patterns in critical scenarios: Sepsis profiles, DIC markers, and hypoglycemia triggers.
Action Tip: Practice interpreting case studies from past papers【69†source】.
🗣️ 10. Prepare for Oral Exams
Speak confidently and logically.
Use a systematic approach: Signalment → Problem List → Differential Diagnoses → Diagnostics → Treatment.
Think aloud to demonstrate reasoning.
Action Tip: Record yourself answering case-based questions.
❤️ 11. Look After Yourself
Avoid Burnout: Take scheduled breaks.
Stay Healthy: Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and exercise.
Sleep Well: Rested minds perform better.
Practice Mindfulness: Stay calm under pressure.
Action Tip: Schedule downtime and reward yourself for meeting milestones.
🎯 12. Build a Support System
Join study groups or online forums with fellow candidates.
Seek mentorship from successful past candidates.
Share resources and discuss challenging topics.
Action Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help!
📝 13. Exam Day Strategies
Read Every Question Carefully: Understand what is being asked before answering.
Prioritize Questions: Start with ones you feel most confident about.
Show Your Reasoning: Even partial answers can earn marks.
Stay Calm and Focused: Take a deep breath if you feel overwhelmed.
Action Tip: Arrive early, stay hydrated, and trust your preparation.
🌟 14. After the Exam
Reflect on your performance and note any weak areas for improvement.
Celebrate your effort and commitment regardless of the outcome.
Prepare for feedback and use it constructively for future attempts if needed.
Action Tip: Take time to recharge before jumping into the next phase of your career.
🚀 Final Words of Encouragement
The ANZCVS Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Membership Exam is challenging but achievable. With dedication, a structured plan, and confidence in your abilities, success is within your reach.
✨ “Stay focused, stay calm, and remember—you’re already a hero to every animal you’ve saved!” 🐾❤️