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| A new small animal intensive care unit at the School of Veterinary Medicine has opened. The new ICU can accommodate four times as many patients as the old ICU and has increased the number of cages to 43 and the number of runs form two to six. The new ICU also has new exam tables, lights, computers and additional emergency power and storage space. In addition the ICU has gone from two veterinary technicians (one during the day and one at night) to nine technicians offering around-the-clock care. According to Dr. Dennis McCurnin, director of the School’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital & Clinics, the ICU needed more cage space to accommodate an increase in the number of oncology patients. “We don’t hospitalize animals for as many things as we used to, so there is less demand for ward space. There is, however, an increased demand for ICU space,” said Dr. McCurnin. “Animals that have received chemotherapy or radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment have had their immune systems compromised and need to be closely monitored.” “We used to have only two work tables, and that made teaching a problem because the room was too crowded. Having more work tables and more space really helps the students,” said LeeAnn Eddleman, the ICU’s head nurse. “This is a state-of-the-art facility, and it is necessary for the quality of care that we’re trying to provide,” said Dr. McCurnin. “I invite any veterinarian visiting the school or the Baton Rouge area to come by and take a look at the new ICU.” - 30 - |
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