ECVAA website - Policies and Procedures

The European College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia (ECVAA) is a veterinary specialty organisation originally recognised by the E.U. Advisory Committee for Veterinary Training (ACVT). It is subject to the rulings of the European Board of Veterinary Specialisation (EBVS). The EBVS recognises ECVAA Practicing Diplomates to be termed as Specialists in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia.

The ECVAA was an initiative of the Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists (AVA), based on their Constitution. The EVBS was the result of initiatives in the late eighties/early nineties in Europe in response to a growing demand for better veterinary services for companion animals through specialisation, and a need to harmonise certification in this area for better consumer information. The first private initiatives were later co-ordinated by the EVBS. European legislation of veterinary specialisation may be wanted in future.

The ECVAA aims at the improvement and promotion of:

the quality of health care, by making available specialised knowledge and skills in veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care to the benefit of the animals
the quality of general practice through the contacts of general practitioners with registered specialists
the quality of the service to the public by, among other things, the protection of the public against non-qualified "specialists"
the professional satisfaction of veterinarians
the structure of health care for animals, thereby improving its perception and understanding by owners, veterinarians and those interested in animal health, insuring the quality of personnel in veterinary clinics
the further development of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia, pain management and intensive care.

The primary objectives of the ECVAA shall therefore be to advance veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care in Europe and increase the competence of those who practice in this field by:

establishing guidelines for post-graduate education and training prerequisite to becoming a specialist in veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia.
examining and authenticating veterinarians as specialist in veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia in order to serve the patient, its owner and the public in general.
encouraging research and other contributions to knowledge relating to veterinary anaesthesia, pain management and intensive care and promoting the communication and dissemination of this knowledge.

The specialist in veterinary anaesthesia normally will work in an academic setting; a primary or referral practice, or in other settings where animal anaesthesia is performed. The main part of his/her time will be devoted to the speciality.

A registered specialist should practice in an animal hospital (or similar) with adequate facilities for veterinary anaesthesia, pain management and intensive care. When the specialist is practising at more than one location, there should be at least one location with adequate facilities.

Veterinary anaesthesia as a specialty covers all aspects of anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care in all domestic species and non-domestic species.

The Practicing Diplomate status ceases by default when the specialty has not been practised for two continuous years or the equivalent of two years during a period of 5 years, and/or should the applicant not meet the requirements for the quinquenial re-validation (Constitution: article 4, section 9). Such Diplomates revert to non-practicing status.

A Diplomate may be voted for removal as a member of the College if they have failed to pay their annual dues for two consecutive years (Constitution: article 4 Section 6; Bylaws: article 6b).

Chapter 2. REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION FOR MEMBERSHIP (Dip. ECVAA)

The Constitution of the ECVAA has established requirements for active membership status. Since 1998 de-facto specialist status is no longer available.

The candidate must

Be licensed to practice veterinary medicine and surgery in Europe. The Credentials and Education Committee may excuse this requirement upon request.
Have a satisfactory moral and ethical standing in the profession. Evidence of professional or legal misconduct, such as misrepresentation or committed felony, may be reason for disqualification.
(a) Have been graduated from veterinary school at least five years, and devoted to special education training, and practice of veterinary anaesthesia the equivalent of at least 2.5 years by the deadline for full submission of credentials to sit the examination (currently March 1^st).

The following sequence of training is to be used.
1. A first period of one to one-and-a-half years must be a rotating internship, or its equivalent, as defined by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee.
2. The second residency period shall comprise a two-and-a-half to three-year postgraduate training programme under supervision of Diplomates of the ECVAA, or a Diplomate of the ACVA or its equivalent, as defined by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee. An alternative residency programme at least as long as for the internship/standard residency based programme can be approved for an individual candidate. The precise form of such a programme is at the discretion of the Credential Committee, and must be approved by them before the training begins.
Or

(b) Those who are internationally recognised in the field of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care, at the discretion of the Credentials and Education Committee (According to Bylaws 5.1). The candidate also must provide evidence of training. The standard normally used to define such recognition would be that originally applied to de-facto Diplomates as defined by Section 2c of the Constitution.
Have made a significant contribution to veterinary anaesthesia, as represented by publications and demonstrated by a high standard of proficiency in the specialty. In keeping with the Constitutional objectives of the ECVAA each applicant must demonstrate willingness to contribute to the literature.
The minimum requirement is:
- One original paper on the subject of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia, pain management or anaesthetic related intensive care in an internationally refereed scientific journal of which the applicant must be the principal author.
- For candidates commencing their residency from January 1^st 2007 onward, a second published paper on the subjects listed above. This paper may be a case report, a review or a CPD article of which the applicant is first author. It may also be an original scientific paper of which the applicant is author or co-author. Alternative publications may be considered at the discretion of the Credentials and Education Committee.
- Three case reports, published or in a form suitable for publication of which the applicant is the principal author, and must primarily be related to anaesthesia/analgesia-pain management/anaesthesia-related intensive care. If a published case report is presented as one of these three required reports, the same case report may NOT be used to satisfy the requirements of a second publication as described above.
- As proof of clinical experience, three hundred case records.
Further detail of the above requirements are detailed in Chapter 5 and in the relevant appendices (Appendices III, IV and V).

Responsibility for evaluating the quality of the publications and case reports rests with the Credentials and Education Committee.
Have successfully passed the examination by the College and certification by the Executive Committee of the College.

Chapter 3. DIPLOMATES

Categories of Diplomate Status.
Members of the College may be (a) practicing Diplomates, currently working in the field of anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care (b) non-practicing (c) retired or (d) honorary members. Only the Practicing Diplomates (henceforth termed Diplomate) may be registered as ‘Specialists’. Should a Diplomate no longer meet the requirements for re-validation, they revert to non-practicing status until such requirements are met. A Retired Diplomate is one who is permanently and irrevocably retired (Constitution: article 4, section 7).
Duties of Diplomates.
The duties of a Practicing Diplomate are reflected in the requirements for re-validation.

Practicing Diplomates who are registered as Specialists should be actively working in the field of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care for at least 24 hours a week (60% of a normal working week). They are expected to maintain their own knowledge at specialist level by attendance at and contributions to suitable meetings of specialists. They are expected to advance the subject of veterinary anaesthesia by high quality practice, by research and by contributing to training as outlined above (Chapter 1).

Practicing Diplomates are expected to contribute actively to the affairs of the College (Constitution: article 4 section 5). They should attend ECVAA general meetings regularly; it is their duty to attend at least once every 3 years. They should be willing to assist in the examination process by marking work submitted for credentials and examination papers, and/or by assisting in oral examinations as requested. They should provide examination questions as and when requested by the Chair of the Examination committee. Such questions may be referenced multiple choice, and/or short answer or long essay questions with specimen answers provided. If requested they should be willing to referee at least two papers each year for Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia. Repeated unexcused failure to contribute actively to the affairs of the College may render a member subject to disciplinary action by the College.

Practicing Diplomates should contribute to training programmes as is relevant to their practice. Diplomates working in suitable establishments may apply for these to be recognised as Approved Centres and for their programmes to be recognised as a Standard Residency, as described in detail below (Chapter 4). Those working elsewhere may supervise or contribute to alternative programmes (Chapter 4) which MUST be approved in advance by the Credentials and Education committee. Contributions may also be made at training courses, including those run in conjunction with the AVA/ECVAA meetings.
Maintenance of Practicing Diplomate Status.
The specialist registration as a Practicing Diplomate ceases by default when the specialty has not been practised for two continuous years or the equivalent of two years during a period of 5 years or should the applicant not meet the requirements for the quinquennial re-validation (Constitution: article 4, section 9).

The EBVS demands that all active Diplomates must revalidate their Practicing Diplomate status at 5 year intervals by providing evidence of continuation of working as a specialist in the field of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia/pain management and intensive care; of continuing education as described above. They also must have contributed to the work of the College as specified above. The revalidation form (Appendix I: Forms) details the current standard requirements for re-evaluation, but other evidence of practicing status may be considered by the Credentials and Education Committee.

Chapter 4. ECVAA TRAINING PROGRAMME IN VETERINARY ANAESTHESIA AND ANALGESIA

Definition of the Training Programme:
A Veterinary Anaesthesia Training Programme allows a graduate veterinarian ("candidate") to acquire in-depth knowledge of veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care and supporting disciplines under the supervision and guidance of a Diplomate of the ECVAA or an ACVA diplomate or its equivalent, as defined by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee.

The residency training programme normally should be similar to that run in approved centres, but more flexible arrangements for those working outside veterinary schools should also be developed subject to approval in advance by the Credentials and Education Committee.
Objectives of the Training Programme:
1. To promote aptitude and clinical proficiency in veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care.
2. To instruct the candidate in the science and practice of veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care and supporting disciplines.
3. To provide the candidate with the opportunity to pursue career goals in teaching, research, clinical service, and/or specialty practice.
The veterinary anaesthesia specialist ("the specialist") should be able to:
- express thoughts clearly, in oral as well as written form
- approach problems in an analytic, scientific way
- contribute to the quality of veterinary anaesthesia
- be acquainted with the main current theories, principles and problems of the specialty through congresses and literature
- conform to modern standards of skills and equipment
The specialist shall have full understanding of the following:
1. Basic Sciences Applied to Anaesthesia - fundamental and applied aspects of physiology, pharmacology, biophysics, biochemistry and pathology relating to the subject of anaesthesia and intensive care. Techniques of biological measurement used in clinical and experimental animals and interpretation of results including statistics.
  1. Physiology
    
    The general principles of physiology and a more detailed knowledge of those aspects related to anaesthesia should be understood, including current knowledge of the function of peripheral and autonomic nervous system, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and the transport of gases, the control of water, electrolytes, hydrogen ions and buffers in biological systems, hepatic and renal physiology and endocrinology.
  2. Pharmacology
    
    A detailed knowledge of the actions of all drugs used in anaesthesia and supportive care will be required, their pharmacology including pharmacokinetics and metabolism, the effects of change in composition of body fluids and transport across cell membranes.
    
    Candidates should be aware of potential drug interactions during anaesthesia and the effects of endogenous biologically active substances such as histamine, serotonin, prostaglandins and neural peptides on the course of anaesthesia.
  3. Biophysics, Biochemistry and Clinical Measurement
    
    Candidates should know about atomic and molecular structure, physical characteristics of crystalloids and colloids, the laws affecting temperature, pressure and flow of gases and liquids with particular reference to the design of anaesthetic equipment. Candidates should be aware of the main biochemical pathways in carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism and energy production.
    
    Candidates should be familiar with techniques of measurement and interpretation used both in clinical and research situations. They should have a general understanding of the operating principles and of the limitations of the instruments used, but detailed knowledge of electronic circuitry will not be required.
  4. Anatomy
    
    A general knowledge of the anatomy of the nervous system and a detailed knowledge of the spinal cord and main nerve trunks blocked in regional analgesic techniques will be required. A thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the thorax, abdomen, head and neck as they relate to anaesthesia will be necessary.
  5. Pathology
    
    Candidates should be aware of the recent developments in pathology as they affect anaesthesia and intensive care as well as the way anaesthesia may effect pathological processes. Candidates should know the pathological conditions that affect the body systems related to anaesthesia, particularly those diseases which affect cardiovascular, respiratory and renal function and those which produce metabolic disturbances. Candidates should be capable of interpreting reports from clinical haematology, microbiology and chemistry laboratories.
2. Anaesthesia - theoretical and practical aspects of the general subject of anaesthesia and a thorough knowledge of the whole field of anaesthesia in animals including specialised clinical and research techniques.
  1. Clinical Anaesthesia
    
    Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have had extensive experience of clinical veterinary anaesthesia in the range of species normally encountered in clinical practice. A series of 300 case records must be submitted before taking the examination to substantiate the experience gained (for further details of the requirements of these case records and example record sheets see Appendix V). When necessary, candidates should seek additional experience in more than one centre to gain a wide basis for their anaesthetic practice.
    
    The experience of general clinical veterinary medicine and surgery expected must include responsibility for supportive care of animals before and after as well as during surgery. A general knowledge of current developments in the whole field of anaesthesia will be expected so that relevant aspects of medical anaesthesia may be applied to clinical anaesthesia in animals.
    
    Candidates should be familiar with anaesthesia of captive and feral wild animals.
    
    Candidates should know the indications for specialised techniques such as cardioangiography, cardiopulmonary bypass, controlled hypotension and hypothermia.
    
    Candidates should understand the function of apparatus used in anaesthesia and this should include the equipment used for measurement in more advanced anaesthetic techniques.
  2. Anaesthesia in Research
    
    Candidates should know methods of restraint and anaesthesia suitable for laboratory animals and be able to advise on techniques for different procedures in experimental laboratories. They would also be expected to be familiar with anaesthetic techniques suitable for acute studies and appreciate the influence of the anaesthetic on the results of the experiment.
    
    Candidates should be able to apply their knowledge of basic sciences to the development of veterinary anaesthesia. They should be familiar with pharmacological methods and be able to design trials to evaluate anaesthetic and ancillary drugs and should have sufficient knowledge of statistics to analyse results and interpret published work. They should be aware of the way physiological and biochemical studies associated with anaesthesia can be carried out in animals and be able to investigate the functional characteristics of anaesthetic apparatus.
3. Analgesia - Candidates must be familiar with the fundamental and applied aspects of pain physiology and specific pharmacology. Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have had experience of dedicated pain management in the range of species normally encountered in clinical practice and experimental surgical procedures. The majority of the series of 300 case records must include details of perioperative pain treatment to substantiate the experience gained. Candidates should be familiar with differents methods of pain scoring and interpretation. Candidates should have notions about the pathophysiology of chronic pain and the possibilities for treatment/prevention. Candidates should be able to advise on pain management for different procedures in experimental laboratories and appreciate the influence of pain on the results of the experiment. The candidate must document himself on the recent developments in ethical perception and legislation in general when pain and animal welfare/husbandry-issues are discussed.
4. Intensive Care - theoretical and practical aspects of the general subject of intensive perioperative care and a thorough knowledge of the whole field of critical care in animals.
  
  Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have had experience of intensive perioperative care of critically ill patients in the range of species normally encountered in clinical practice. Thus to substantiate this experience gained, a number of cases (see Appendix V) should be presented to record post-operative intensive care. When necessary, candidates should seek additional experience in more than one centre to gain a wide basis for their experience in intensive care. A general knowledge of current developments in the whole field of critical care will be expected so that relevant aspects of medical perioperative care may be applied in animals. Candidates should understand the function of apparatus used in intensive care.
5. General Medicine and Surgery - Fundamentals and applied aspects of veterinary medicine and surgery of importance in the practice of veterinary anaesthesia and intensive care.
  
  Candidates will be expected to have a thorough knowledge of the natural course and therapeutics of medical and surgical diseases of domestic animals of importance in the practice of veterinary anaesthesia. A more superficial acquaintance with the special aspects or disease in non-domestic animals, birds, fish and laboratory animals will also be expected.
  
  Candidates should be familiar with the problems encountered in the application of diagnostic techniques such as radiographic procedures, ultra-sound scanning and MR imaging, and the influence of anaesthetic methods on these problems. They should be able to interpret and assess the value of the results obtained and understand the limitations of the procedures in the diagnosis of disease.
These specifications between brackets are examples and may be adapted as necessary by the Credentials and Education Committee of the College of Veterinary Anaesthesia to recent developments.
Enrolment in the Training Programme
Candidates following an approved standard residency training programme should enrol as soon as possible. Candidates commencing their Residency in 2008 or later MUST enrol in time for their application to be considered at the first practicable ECVAA meeting following this commencement; those in a Standard Residency prior to 2008 MUST enrol within a year of commencement of that Residency (form EDC, Appendix I.A).

Candidates intending to follow an alternative programme must apply for enrolment as well as for approval of their programme, before training begins (Chapter 4, IV, Enrolment form AAP Appendix I).

Each candidate must have a ECVAA or an ACVA Diplomate (neither non-practicing nor retired), as their supervisor.

Enrolment applications for standard Residency programmes should be submitted both to the Executive Secretary and to the Chair of the Credentials and Education committee AT LEAST 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE ECVAA meeting at which they are to be considered.

Enrolment applications for alternative Residency programmes should be submitted both to the Executive Secretary and to theChair of the Credentials and Education committee AT LEAST 4 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE ECVAA meeting at which they are to be considered.

On acceptance of their enrolment, candidates will be notified of the expected completion date to their residency (normally 3 years for a standard residency, and as agreed at approval of the programme for an alternative residency). If circumstances demand a delay to this date, the candidate should submit such a request both to the Secretary and to the Chair of the Credentials and Education committee. The Resident (now candidate) should submit their credentials to be eligible to sit the examination within 18 months of completion of the Residency (Bylaws article 5.2). They should pass the examination within 8 years of the end of the Residency. Failure to meet these deadlines will necessitate re-registration as a potential examination candidate.
Description of the Training programme:
The European requirements for specialization emphasize the importance of evidence of training as well as success in examinations. It is thus essential that each candidate undergoes an approved training programme.

The training programme must consist of:
1. A 1-1.5 year pre-residency training programme which should cover a range of clinical veterinary disciplines. This period should take place before the Residency.
  The Pre-residency programme shall consist of a 1-1.5 year internship or equivalent approved by the Credentials and Education committee. This includes any clinical internship in a training centre. An internship in anaesthesia or small or large animal medicine or surgery will suffice, but programmes designed to allow rotation through disciplines, and across species, are encouraged. Paraclinical internships such as pathology or pharmacolgy would be allowed only if the candidate can demonstrate a substantial clinical input and would be subject to special scrutiny and approval by the Credentials and Education Committee.
  
  An equivalent period in general practice or other institute is also allowed, subject to approval by the Credentials and Education committee, if the candidate is engaged in clinical work for the majority of his/her time and the practice/institute is approved by the Credentials and Education Committee as having adequate facilities and supervision by experienced clinicians.
  
  AND
2. The second and major part of the training programme is a Residency Programme in Anaesthesia (Bylaws article 5.1).
  The Residency Programme can be either: A Standard Approved Residency Programme or a specific Alternative Programme approved for an individual candidate.
  1. A Standard Approved Residency Programme.
    A Veterinary Anaesthesia Residency Programme shall take place in an approved centre, usually a university veterinary school, and consist of a period of 2.5-3 years of supervised training, postgraduate education, and clinical experience in the science and practice of veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care and supporting disciplines under the supervision of at least one Practicing ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate who participates actively in that programme, as defined by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee. The Residency Programme must devote at least 60% of time to the clinical practice of anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care, and of this time, at least 33% must be spent working with in large animals and at least 33% with small animals. Details of other requirements of the programme, and of the minimum facilities for a Residency programme are detailed in sections V and VI below.
    
    Standard Residencies are approved by the ECVAA Board. ECVAA or ACVA Diplomates wishing approval for Standard Residencies should confirm that they offer a programme that fulfils the criteria by completing and signing form ACR then returning it to the Executive Secretary. The Board will consider their application at its next meeting, and if approved, the Centre will be designated an Approved Centre to run Standard Residencies. Re-approval of each programme is necessary every five (5) year (form ACR). Approval will apply to the programme at the named institution and as long as it is supervised by the named ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate(s). Any change in the structure of the programme; in the infrastructure of the Institution relating to anaesthesia or change in Diplomates working at the Institution must be notified to the Board. The Approval of the programme ceases immediately that the Diplomate leaves and is not replaced by another practicing ECVAA Diplomate.
    
    Once approved, and as long as the requirements for this approval remain, any enrolled candidate satisfactorily completing such a training programme automatically fulfils the Residency training requirements for entry to sit the exam.
    
    Appendix II.A gives an example of a suitable standard training programme.
    
    OR
  2. An Alternative Programme approved (in advance of the commencement of training) for an individual candidate.
    Such programmes are suitable for candidates who are working where not all elements of a Standard Residency are available.
    
    Each alternative programme must be approved for an individual candidate by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee in advance of the commencement of training. The programme is not approved for anyone other than the candidate in question.
    
    This programme ultimately must provide the equivalent of a Standard Residency Programme (Bylaws article 5.1a). Thus it must include the equivalent of 2.5-3 years of supervised training in veterinary anaesthesia and intensive care under the supervision of at least one ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate who participates actively in that programme, as defined by the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee. It is likely to take longer than the standard. The candidate will spend variable periods of time training in a number of centres which, together, will enable him/her to fulfil the requirements to sit the ECVAA exam. The candidate and supervisor must draw up a programme and submit it to the Credentials and Education Committee for approval. If that candidate completes the programme satisfactorily he/she will have fulfilled the Residency training requirements for entry to sit the exam.
    
    An alternative resident must spend at least 60% of 2.5-3 years working in the practice of veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care under supervision of a Diplomate in order to undertake the equivalent of a standard residency programme. This equates to a minimum of at least 60 weeks (not necessarily consecutive) during which time the candidate will be working 100% of the time in veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia and intensive care, under direct supervision of a Diplomate of the ECVAA or ACVA. The remaining requirements for the Residency and the minimum facilities which should be available to the candidate are outlined in sections V and VI. The precise form of such a programme is at the discretion of the Credential Committee, and must be approved by them before the training begins. Any changes to the agreed programme must be approved by the Credentials and Education Committee before implementation.
  Applications for enrolment (form AAP) and approval of the training programme should be submitted by e-mail both to the Executive Secretary and to the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee and a printed copy (with the necessary signatures) posted to the Executive Secretary. The electronic submissions must be made at least 4 weeks prior to the AVA/ECVAA meeting at which the proposal is to be considered by the Credentials and Education Committee.
  
  The application should include the following information:
  
  (a) the ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate’s agreement to supervise. This supervisor then should assist the candidate in preparation of the programme; (b) detail of the practice/institute where the candidate is to work. Approval by the Credentials and Education committee that such a practice/institute has adequate facilities for acceptance as a training centre will be for that candidate only and for only a part of the training; (c) A detailed programme that will demonstrate how all the requirements of the Residency are to be met. This will include working on a regular basis or in blocks of several weeks/months in anaesthesia in a training centre(s) which runs a Residency programme, and/or where there can be supervision from a ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate. Letters of agreement from these training centres are required, although such acceptance in advance may be provisional. It normally will be expected that the candidate would spend some of the training centre time working with his/her ECVAA or ACVA supervisor. The precise detail and venue(s) will depend on the candidate's specific requirements.
  
  Further advice on the presentation of such a programme is given in Appendix II.B.
Additional requirements for Training Programmes (a) and (b)
The degree of responsibility assumed by the Candidate for their cases shall be appropriate to the nature of the procedure and training experience, but must include daily management of anaesthetised animals, provision of peri-operative analgesia and the necessary post-operative care.

Residents must meet with their Supervisor at least twice yearly for evaluation of performance and progress. At these meetings they should provide their supervisors with the information necessary for completion of the ECVAA annual supervisors forms (Forms SRS and SRA). These forms need to be submitted by the 1st February of each year of candidature to the designated member of the credential committee (Dr. Federico Corletto fcorletto@yahoo.it).

Candidates must spend at least 20% of their time within their programme programme in any or all of the following ways:
1. Research or clinical investigation.
2. Preparation of scientific manuscripts.
3. Graduate degree studies.
4. External veterinary anaesthesia rotation with the approval of the Resident’s Supervisor.
5. Rotations in non-anaesthesia, but related disciplines.
6. If practicable, a visit to a human medical hospital is desirable.
Emergency duty: the resident must participate in a veterinary anaesthetic emergency service.

Residents must attend relevant conferences on anaesthesia and related subjects. During veterinary anaesthesia rotations, the Candidate is required to attend "in house" residents conferences and ward rounds as well as veterinary anaesthesia and intensive care conferences, scientific journal clubs and other scientific presentations, including human medical conferences.

Candidates must keep a record of all lectures, conferences and seminars attended (at their place of work as well as external meetings). They should detail all papers presented at conferences and other professional meetings. These must made available by the Supervisor to the ECVAA Credentials and Education Committee in the Annual Supervisors Report.

Candidates must keep a complete record of all anaesthetics given. Three hundred (300) of these records must be presented for approval of credentials (see Appendix V for practical details). The form of the record should be approved by the Credentials and Education Committee prior to commencement of the Residency. The language of the record is preferably English. Other languages are allowed but if the language used is such that the marking process cannot be carried out by the Credentials and Education Committee, at the time of approval of the form the Credentials and Education Committee will request that the Resident annotates the record in English.

The candidate must complete an investigative project that contributes to the advancement of veterinary anaesthesia, and as a result publish as principal author, one original paper on the subject of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia, pain management or anaesthetic related intensive care in an internationally refereed scientific journal.

Candidates commencing their residency from January 1^st 2007 onward must publish a second paper on the subjects listed above. This paper may be a case report, a review or a CPD article of which the applicant is first author. It may also be an original scientific paper of which the applicant is author or co-author. Alternative publications may be considered at the discretion of the Credentials and Education Committee.

The candidate must present three case reports, written in English, published or in a form suitable for publication of which the applicant is the principal author, and must primarily be related to anaesthesia/analgesia-pain management/intensive care. If a case report has been published in a language other than English, a detailed translation is required for marking purposes. A published case report presented as one of these three required reports may NOT be used to satisfy the requirements of a second publication as described above (see Appendix VI for further practical details).

The Candidate is required to participate in the clinical education of graduate veterinarians and/or veterinary medical students assigned to the veterinary anaesthetic rotations.

Within 18 months of the completion of the Programme, the Candidate must submit an application to the Credentials and Education Committee to determine eligibility to sit for the examination for the Diploma (form IEX, form AEX, check-list Appendix).
Documentation and verification of the Training Programme:
The Supervisor, the Candidate and the ECVAA have responsibilities for documentation and verification of satisfactory training for each candidate.

The Supervisor is responsible for:
1. The presence of suitable veterinary anaesthesia facilities, equipment, and supplies within 30 days of programme initiation, and ensuring that the academic facilities required for the Resident are available.
2. Full evaluation once yearly of progress and performance, including case reports, conference attendance and presentation of papers. A yearly Annual Supervisors Report (form SRS or SRA) for each supervised candidate (standard and alternative programme) must be sent by the 1st February of each year of candidature to the designated member of the credentials committee (Dr. Federico Corletto fcorletto@yahoo.it).
3. Applying for re-approval of the Standard Residency programme of the training centre every five years (form ACR).
4. Maintaining their Practicing Diplomate status.
The Candidate is responsible for:
1. Enrolment as a candidate (form EDC).
2. Maintenance of case records, and documentation of conference attendance and paper presentations.
3. Documentation of external training.
4. Application for approval of credentials within 18 months of the completion date of the Residency. Credentials should still be submitted even if the required publications have not been accepted and/or the candidate does not wish to take the examination in that year.
5. Application to sit the Diploma examination so as to enable him/her to pass the examination within 8 years of completion of the Residency.
The ECVAA is responsible for:
1. Evaluation of each candidate's progress and communication of deficiencies to the candidate and Supervisor.
2. Acknowledgment of receipt of all necessary documents.
Facilities, services, and equipment required in an ECVAA Training Programme (standard or alternative)
1. Medical library: a library containing recent textbooks and current journals relating to veterinary and medical anaesthesia and its supporting disciplines must be accessible to the Programme participants; there must be full access to internet.
2. Medical records: a complete medical and anaesthetic record must be maintained for each individual case and those records must be retrievable.
3. Full surgical and anaesthetic facilities must be available to the candidate, to include breathing systems, compressed gases, a range of monitors and facilities for post operative and intensive care. Facilities must be available for a wide range of surgical procedures and species.
4. Radiographic services: separate rooms and appropriate equipment for comprehensive diagnostic imaging must be available.
5. Cardiology at least ECG facilities must be available. Cardiac ultrasound is also desirable.
6. A clinical pathology laboratory for haematological and clinical chemistry, including blood gas analysis, must be available. Clinical pathology reports must be retained and retrievable.

Chapter 5. APPLICATION PROCEDURE FOR VALIDATION OF CREDENTIALS AND/OR TO SIT OR TO RE-SIT THE QUALIFYING EXAMINATION

Application for validation of credentials and to sit the qualifying examination.
General Information

It is the responsibility of potential examination candidates to keep copies of all material submitted to and correspondence with the College. Such material may be required as evidence of completion of credentials. The ECVAA is not responsible for any material not received and acknowledged.
1. The candidate must notify his/her intention to sit (or to re-sit) the examination by sending form IEX to the Executive Secretary before 1^st January of the year he/she intends to sit the examination. This notification is not binding to the potential candidate, but should ensure that he/she receives all relevant information. This is officialised by the following:
2. Full applications for approval of credentials and to sit the examination is 1^st March in the year the examination is to be taken. All required documents (see below and Appendices III, IV, V and VI) and the required fee must be received by this date, with the exception of the published original papers. These, or a letter from the editor of an internationally refereed scientific journal certifying their FINAL acceptance, may be received by the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee no later than 1^st July of the year the candidate wishes to sit for the examination.
The minimum training programme (2.5 years) must be completed at the time the application for the examination is due (currently March 1^st).

Late, or incomplete applications will not be processed or reviewed.

The responsibility for accuracy and availability of all required credentials rests with the applicant.

The following materials must be submitted:
Appendix III (annually updated Checklist) details to whom the documents should be sent
1. Complete Application Form (form AEX).
2. Curriculum Vitae. The curriculum vitae should contain the following (in the same order): Name, address, date of birth, professional education: place, date, degrees, professional activities, scientific organisations, honours: professional, public service, Offices held: professional, public service, scientific publications and presentations.
3. A reference letter from the programme Supervisor of each candidate and sent electronically to both the Executive Secretary and the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee by the referee. All letters must be from persons familiar with the candidate's postgraduate training programme. Requests for reference letters from supervisors should be made in adequate time so as to assure arrival to the Executive. Secretary and the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee on or before the application deadline. It is the applicant's responsibility to see that the reference letter is sent on time. The Credentials and Education Committee and the Executive Secretary are responsible for absolute discretion and confidentiality regarding the reference letter(s). After approval of the candidate to sit the examination the relevant part of the reference letter(s) (see below) will be destroyed.
  Reference letters must document the following:
  
  Part one
  1. Verification of Veterinary Anaesthesia Training Programme and level of supervision.
  2. The applicant's proficiency, judgment, and competence as a specialist and academic readiness to sit the examination.
  3. The commitment of the applicant to the Constitutional objectives of the ECVAA.
  Part two (separate page)
  
  In this part of the letter the supervisor must state that:
  1. the anaesthetic cases were personally handled by the candidate, or for a few cases (Appendix V), as a senior member of the anaesthesia team and
  2. that she/he (the supervisor) approves the submission of the case logbook.
  After approval of the candidate to sit the examination the reference letter(s) will be destroyed.
4. The following completed and verified items must accompany the application: (see requirements of admission):
  1. Submission of 300 anaesthetic case records personally handled or, as specified in Appendix V, in a few special cases as a senior member of the anaesthesia team.
    The Case Records must be divided and arranged in the sequence listed, then indexed and bound in folders to prevent loss and to facilitate review. The applicant's name should be on the front of each folder.
  2. One original paper on the subject of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia, pain management or anaesthetic related intensive care in an internationally refereed scientific journal of which the applicant must be the principal author.
    For candidates commencing their residency from January 1^st 2007 onward, a second published paper on the subject of veterinary anaesthesia, analgesia or intensive care. This second paper may be a case report, a review or a CPD article of which the applicant is first author or an original scientific paper of which the applicant is author or co-author. Alternative publications may be considered at the discretion of the Credentials and Education Committee.
    
    Publications not in English must be accompanied by a full translation for marking purposes.
    
    The publications must be published or accepted for publication. Letters of final acceptance and copies of accepted manuscripts are required.
  3. Three case reports, published or in a form suitable for publication of which the applicant is the principal author, and must primarily be related to anaesthesia/analgesia-pain management/intensive care (Appendix IV). Publications not in English must be accompanied by a full translation for marking purposes. Published case reports submitted to fulfill the case report this requirement may not also be used to fulfill the requirement for a second publication.
  4. Verified documentation of attendance at ‘in house’ seminars, at conferences and paper presentations. Verification may be in the form of signed statement from the supervisor verifying the meeting attendances. Such verification should also have been received from the supervisor in the form of the annual supervisors report.
5. Previous correspondence pertinent to the training programme and application if applicable.
6. Application fee (Appendix VI).
  1. The application will not be evaluated or processed without the application fee being paid in full.
  2. The application fee is non refundable.
  3. If any portion of the application has to be resubmitted, a fee may be required.
If the credentials are accepted by the Credentials and Education Committee and approved by the Executive Committee, the applicant will be notified at least 4 weeks before the written examination. The Secretary of the Examination Committee will notify successful applicants of the dates and procedure of examination.

If any of the submitted work is considered to be of inadequate standard, the candidate will not be allowed to proceed further with the examinations. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by a letter explaining the deficiencies in credentials. A subsequent reapplication must include resubmission of those credentials found deficient, a written outline of the re-applicants self-evaluation and remedies that have been taken to correct these deficiencies, a new application form, an up-dated curriculum vitae, pertinent correspondence, and any further application fee required. The application materials must be presented in the manner previously described.

Specific requirements in relation to how the documents above should be sent; e.g. which parts of the credentials are required in hard-copy and which in electronic form, and the addresses to send the correspondence may vary from year to year. Potential candidates will be notified of the current arrangements subsequent to receipt of their ‘Intention to sit the examination’ form. Candidates may be requested to send separate parts of their submissions to different addresses.

Candidates are advised to send the hard copies of the documents (in particular difficult to replace documents such as the case records) using a secure method which records arrival and receipt. The ECVAA is not responsible for material not received, nor for material submitted to an incorrect address. All submitted application materials become the sole property of the ECVAA. Normally they will not be returned to the applicant, unless the applicant request them, and organises and pays for their return transport within 1 month of the final (oral) examination date. After this time, the material may be destroyed.
Explanatory note on (a) case records and (b) case report submission for the ECVAA exams
(a) case records

During a residency programme the candidate must maintain a complete anaesthetic record of each anaesthetic given. Three hundred (300) of these records must be presented for approval of credentials.

Detailed below are the requirements for candidates who commenced their Residencies prior to 2008. Appendix V details the requirements for those who commence their residencies in 2008 or later. Those commencing their Residency prior to 2008 also may find Appendix V a useful guide in interpreting the requirements below.

Case Records: format

An anaesthetic record should represent a legal record of significant events and illustrate recognition of trends in monitored parameters. It is expected that the case records presented can be used as such should a medico-legal problem arise. The arrangement and individual components of the record can be varied but examples can be found in major (veterinary) anaesthesia textbooks. Details of the pre-anaesthetic examination, recovery and immediate post-anaesthetic period must be included. The record should include all drugs administered, noting the dose, time and route of administration. Monitored parameters should be recorded on a regular basis of a minimum of ten minute intervals and consist of the essential clinically obtainable cardio-respiratory parameters and signs of anaesthetic depth.

The anaesthetic case record used must be approved by the Credentials and Education committee prior to the commencement of the Residency. For those undertaking a Standard Residency this approval should have been obtained at the time of quinquenial approval of the establishment as an Approved training centre.

Case Records: number and categories

The application for the exams must be accompanied by submission of 300 case records. Submitted case records are the results of anaesthetic cases personally handled as principal anaesthetist. They must include at least 100 horses, 100 small animals, 25 farm animals and 10 non-domestic species. At least fifty percent of the cases, preferably of each category, must be clinical cases. Anaesthetic cases lasting less than fifteen minutes normally should not be included unless of special interest. To substantiate the experience gained in Intensive care, ten percent of the series of the 300 anaesthetic case records must include details of peri-operative care including pain management. For candidates enrolled in an alternative programme these 300 cases records must be selected from cases done under direct supervision of a ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate.

Presentation of the case records for submission

Good quality copies or the original case records may be submitted. The case records should be ordered according to the species and assembled in one or more volumes. There must be a general index specifying for each species the number of cases submitted, the partition between clinical/non clinical cases and the partition according to ASA category. Each species category should begin with a list mentioning the purpose of each individual anaesthetic and, if applicable, the requirement for and application of particular post-anaesthetic care.

(b) case reports

Case reports: number and categories

Three case reports (case-based studies; either single or multiple animals) must be submitted, in a form suitable for publication or already published with the applicant as first author. A published case report that has been used to satisfy the requirement for a second publication cannot also be used to satisfy the case book. The language should be in English; if published in another language, candidates should provide a full translation in English (for marking purposes).

The case reports have to be relevant to anaesthesia, analgesia-pain management and intensive care. At least one report should be a large or small animal report, respectively.

Case reports: format (Appendix IV)

Details of the required format of the case reports, and the marking scheme employed are given in Appendix IV, which will be updated annually. The update for each year will published on the ECVAA web site by January 15^th of the year to which it refers, and will be communicated to all potential candidates following receipt of their ‘intention to sit’ form on January 1^st.

The case reports should be submitted electronically (by e-mail, or if necessary on disc) and for each case, should include one version in pdf-format and a second anonymous version in word format. These should be sent electronically to the Chair of The Credentials and Education Committee. To make the case report anonymous means the removal of author’s name and work address and removal of any indication of the place where the work was done such as trade names of drugs, and addresses of any manufacturers of machines and drugs. In the word-format version, please ensure that you have removed all electronic traces of the changes you have made.

The electronic address for these submissions will be notified to all candidates who have submitted the ‘intention to sit’ form.

An example of a suitable case report is given in Appendix IV.
Application procedures to extend the residency period; to re-submit credentials or to re-sit any part of the examination.
(a) Extension of Residency Period

A Resident who, for any reason, cannot complete their Residency by the time given for completion should apply to the Executive Secretary for an extension giving reasons for their request. The request should be accompanied by a letter from their supervisor supporting the application. The request will be considered by the Credentials and Education committee.

(b) Failure of credentials and failure to submit credentials

Candidates must submit their credentials for approval within 18 months of the agreed date of completion of their Residency (Bylaws article 5.2). They should do this even if their credentials are incomplete. Where credentials are not accepted, the candidate will be informed of the reasons for failure, and the action required to correct the deficiencies before re-submission. The amended material should then be re-submitted as described above (see also Appendix III). The standard application forms (intention to sit the examination by January 1^st; application for credentials approval and entry to the examination by March 1^st) are required. A further fee may be required.

Those who fail to submit their credentials within the required time (18 months from the end of their Residency) may be asked to provide further evidence of their continuing practice in veterinary anaesthesia and pain management. The Credentials and Education Committee also may require them to undergo further training before their credentials can be accepted.

(c) Application to re-sit all or part of the examination (credentials approval still valid)

Candidates who have failed part or all of the examination, but who’s credentials are still valid, may submit form IEX (intention to sit the examination) by January 1^st. Furthermore they must submit an application to take the examination, stating which areas they are required to re-sit (form AEX) by 1^st March of the year in which they wish to re-sit the examination, together with the fee as notified. Candidates may only sit or re-sit the examination on a total of four (4) occasions.

(d) Failure to pass the examination within 8 years of completion of the residency

Candidates are expected to pass the Diploma examination within 8 years of the agreed end of their Residency (Bylaws article 5.2). Those who fail to do so for any reason are deemed to have withdrawn their candidacy. Should any such candidate wish to continue, and have mitigating circumstances for their failure to meet the targets, they must apply to the Credentials and Education committee. Such an application should be accompanied by:
1. A written outline of the re applicant's self-evaluation and his/her remedy to correct these deficiencies, and of any mitigating circumstances.
2. An updated curriculum vitae. An addendum should reflect training and experiences directed toward correcting the deficiencies noted in the self-evaluation or, in the case of multiple examination failures, as expressed to the candidate by the examination committee.
3. As proof of continued experience in the field of anaesthesia and pain management, an updated case-log. This should contain at least 100 records of anaesthetics given during the previous 3 years, and of these 100, at least 30 must be horses and 30 cats and dogs.
4. At least one letter of reference. These letter(s) should specifically address the efforts taken by the applicant to correct the deficiencies of previous examinations.
5. At least one major publication (additional to those required for the first submission) in the field of veterinary anaesthesia, and/or analgesia with the applicant being the first or sole author is required. The publications must have been published or at least fully accepted for publication (proof provided) by a refereed scientific journal. The publication must be less than five years old at the date of the current application deadline.
6. All pertinent correspondence should be provided. This should include a list of all dates of previous applications and appropriate correspondence.
7. The candidate should contact the Executive Secretary as to whom and in what form this material should be sent.
Chapter 6. QUALIFYING EXAMINATION
1. General Information
  The examination will test all aspects of veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia, pain management and intensive care and is composed of written and practical sections. Precise details of the format of the examination and pass marks will be provided for each year by the examination committee, and can be found in Appendix III which will be updated annually.
  
  The place and dates of the written and of the oral/practical examinations will be notified to potential candidates prior to the final application date of the examination of March 1^st.
  
  The written examination will normally take place on one site. In exceptional circumstances a candidate may request that they sit the written examination at a different site. Such requests must be made by January 1^st of the year of the examination - at the time of submitting the ‘intention to sit’ form. A request will only be granted if it is practicable for a member or appointee of the examinations committee, not working at the same establishment as the candidate, to invigilate. The candidate will be responsible for any expenses resulting.
  1. The written section consists of multiple choice questions and essay questions. Example questions, when available, will be provided to every applicant after his/her credentials are approved. The written papers will be marked ‘blind’.
  2. During the conclusive practical and oral examination, each candidate will be examined by one or more members of the Examination Committee. The practical portion of the examination will include clinical evaluation of animal patients, discussion of anaesthetic and related equipment and evaluation of real and hypothetical case material. The oral portion of the exam is designed to evaluate the candidates overall knowledge of all aspects of anaesthesia. Candidates should be prepared to answer questions covering all areas of veterinary anaesthesia and intensive care.
  3. Both parts of the examination must be successfully completed to become certified as a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia.
  4. Only those candidates who pass the written section of the examination will proceed to the oral/practical examinations. Some compensation may be allowed between papers.
  5. Candidates must pass the examination within 8 years of completion of their Residency. They may sit the examination on four (4) occasions only. Failure to satisfy any of these requirements necessitates that the candidate repeats the credentials process. Additional periods of training and/or experience may be required by the committee. The second approval by the Credentials and Education committee will be reviewed annually, the incoming examination committee Chair and the incoming Credentials and Education committee Chair having the option of recommending reapplication on a yearly basis.
  Credentials of candidates who pass the examination will be forwarded to the President by the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee.
  
  The integrity of the Diplomate status examination will be maintained by the ECVAA to ensure the validity of scores awarded to candidate.
Chapter 7: APPLICATION FORMS

The following application forms are available below:
- For Diplomates
  1. Form ACR: (Re-)Approval of standard Residency programme.
    Diplomates wishing to run a standard programme are requested to complete this form, specifying their facilities, the supervisors, the case records to be used, and detailing the programme they intent the Resident to undertake. They must certify that they are able to provide a Standard Programme as laid down in the Policies and Procedures Chapter 4. An example of a suitable programme is given in Appendix II.A. The programme must be submitted for re-approval every five years. Application for re-approval uses the same form, but should also point out changes which have occurred since the last submission. Any significant changes, however, that occur within the five year approval period (changes in staff, facilities, case record form etc.) should be notified also to the Executive Secretary when and as they occur. The Executive Secretary will inform Diplomates as to when the re-approval is due.
    
    The form should be submitted electronically as an e-mail attachment must be sent both to the Executive Secretary and the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee. A signed ‘hard copy’ should be sent by post to the Executive Secretary.
    
    Diplomates are reminded that their Residents must submit their enrolment in time (2 weeks prior to- for standard programs and 4 weeks prior to- for alternative programs) for consideration at the first ECVAA Board meeting after commencement of their programme (Chapter 4.III of the Policies and Procedures).
  2. Form RVD: Re-validation as a Diplomate
    Re-validation as an ECVAA Diplomate is necessary every five years. The Executive Secretary will inform Diplomates when such re-validation is due. The requirements for re-validation are as demonstrated in the form. Where changes in requirements occur during the five year period, they will not be made ‘retrospective’ - i.e. a Diplomate may work to achieve the goals set at the commencement of the five year period.
    
    The form must be filled in electronically, and sent as an e-mail attachment both to the Executive Secretary and to the Chair of the Credentials Committee. A signed ‘hard copy’ should be sent by post to the Executive Secretary.
- For candidates
  1. Form EDC: Enrolment as a Diploma candidate (a Resident)
    Candidates following an approved standard residency training programme commencing 2008 or later MUST enrol in time for their application to be considered at the first practicable ECVAA meeting following this commencement. A minimum of 2 weeks notice prior to the meeting is needed for the application to be considered. The form, which should be accompanied by a colour photograph, should be filled in electronically and sent as an e-mail attachment both to the Executive Secretary and the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee. A signed ‘hard copy’ should be sent by post to the Executive Secretary.
    
    The current fee (2010) for enrolment is € 450, which should be sent directly to the Honorary Treasurer.
  2. Form AAP: Application for approval of an Alternative Residency Programme.
    One of these must be filled in for each place of work and together they should provide at least the equivalent of a Standard Residency Programme (see above). Candidates intending to follow such a programme should apply for approval of their programme as well as for enrolment, before training begins. Each form should be accompanied by a full description of the (alternative) programme to be followed. If a part of the alternative programme is done in an approved ECVAA training centre the details of the available infrastructure are not needed. The application must be signed by the candidate and all concerned supervisors and send by post to the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee. The application as an e-mail attachment must be sent also to the executive Secretary. Once the programme is definitive and approved the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee will forward it to the Executive Secretary as an e-mail attachment.
  3. Form IEX: Formal Intention to sit the ECVAA Exams
    This form should be completed and be sent as an e-mail attachment to the Executive Secretary by 1^st January of the year the candidate intends to sit the examination. Please format your e-mail so that it requests a reply that your e-mail was received. The ECVAA is not responsible for mail not received.
    
    Submission of this form does not commit the candidate to sitting the examination in that year, but ensures that they will be informed of all relevant material in relation to the conduct of the examination. Enrolment into the examination process does not commence until the official application to sit the examination which must be submitted before 1^st March.
  4. Form AEX: Application to sit the Diploma exam
    Applications to sit the examination must be submitted no later than the closing date, 1 ^st March, in the year the examination is taken (usually September/October). It must be accompanied by all necessary documents (see Policies and Procedures Chapter 5, and Appendices III, IV, V and VI). Candidates who have completed the ‘intention to sit’ form will have been informed to where to send each part of the documentation. The form must be filled in electronically, signed and send by post to the Executive Secretary. The form as an e-mail attachment must be sent also to the Executive Secretary and the Chair of Credentials and Education Committee.
Fees: € 450 for sitting the whole examination in 2010. For fees re-sitting part of the examination see Appendix VI.

The Secretary will acknowledge the receipt of the form(s) via e-mail. A letter about acceptance will be sent after enrolment and/or the training programme have been approved/reregistration is approved. Application to entry the exam (form AEX): aknowledgement of receipt will be sent by the Secretary. Guidelines and information about the format of the examination will be sent by the Chair of the exam Committee. The candidate will be asked to acknowledge the receipt of these guidelines.

Appendices
(2010, to be updated annually)

Appendix I: Forms
1. Forms for Candidates (Residents)
  1. Application Forms to Enrol in a training programme to become a Diploma candidate (a Resident)
    1. Form EDC: Enrolment in a Standard Training Programme (as a Resident).
    2. Form AAP: Application for approval of an Alternative Residency Programme (specific for an individual candidate).
  2. Forms related to application for approval of credentials and to sit the Diploma examination
    1. Form IEX: Formal Intention to sit the ECVAA Exams (deadline 1^st January of the year of candidature).
    2. Form AEX: Application to sit the Diploma exam (deadline 1^st March of the year of candidature).
2. Forms for Diplomates
  1. Form ACR: Application for (Re-)Approval of a Centre to be recognised as a training centre for a standard Residency programme.
  2. Form SRS: Supervisor’s Annual Report for a Standard Residency programme (deadline 1st of February of each year of candidature).
  3. Form SRA: Supervisor’s Annual Report for an Alterenative Residency programme (deadline 1st of February of each year of candidature).
  4. Form RVD: Re-validation as a Diplomate (quinquennial).
Appendix II: Training Programmes
1. Example of a standard residency training programme description.
2. Example of an alternative residency training programme description.
Appendix III: Examination-year 2010
1. Practical Check List
  PRACTICAL CHECK LIST of items and persons for the year 2010 (credentials submission). More Details can be taken from the relevant sections of the Policies and Procedures.
  
  The candidate must formulate his/her intention to sit the exams by sending a form IEX to the Executive Secretary before 1st Janaury of the year he/she intends to sit the exam. This does not necessarily mean that the candidate will effectively sit the exam. The latter is officialised by the following:
  
  The deadline for submitting an application to sit the exams is 1^st March in the year the exam is taken. Everything must be submitted by this date with the exception of the original papers. The latter, or a letter from the editor of an internationally refereed scientific journal certifying the FINAL acceptance of the papers, may be received by the Chair of the Credentials and Education Committee no later than 1^st July of the year the candidate wants to sit the exam.
  
  The following must accompany the application to sit the ECVAA examination:
  1. To be sent to the Chairman of the Credentials and Education Committee
    1. Application to sit the next ECVAA Diploma Examination (form AEX) as an e-mail attachment.
    2. Curriculum vitae (printed form and as an e-mail attachment). Please include a list of attendance at conferences or any other relevant meetings (certificates of attendance if possible), list any publications including articles and any papers presented, to show involvement in veterinary anaesthesia.
    3. A reference letter from the supervisor. It should be sent directly by the supervisor (see Policies and Procedures, chapter 5.I).
    4. An (two*) original paper(s) as an e-mail attachment (if "in press", a letter from the editor of the Journal confirming the FINAL acceptance of the paper is needed). The paper or the letter of acceptance must be received by the Chairman of the Credentials and Education Committee no later than 1^st July in the year the exam is taken. In case the paper is in press, the last version of the paper as it has been submitted must be sent. If not available in electronic form, then three hard copies should be sent.
      * for candidates with starting date of the programme from 1^st January 2007 on
      If the paper is in a language other than English, the candidate should also provide an extensive summary in English.
    5. The anaesthetic case logbook (300 anaesthetic case records), see ECVAA Bylaws article 5.1.c, Policies and Procedures chapter 5.I & II). Candidates will be informed to which member of the Credentials and Education Committee their case logbook should be sent by the Chair of the Credentials and education Committee.
    6. Three case reports (as e-mail attachments in two forms; one full copy in PDF-format and an anonymous one in word doc format. For anonymisation please delete the author(s) name(s) and affiliation, and from the text any information that might make the reader understand where a report comes from (e.g. referring center or names of drugs and companies). The reports should be ordered and numbered, see ECVAA Bylaws article 5.1.c, Policies and Procedures chapter 2.4 and chapter 5.I & II.
    7. For those re-sitting the exams, all pertinent correspondence, e.g. a copy of the letter of the Credentials and Education Committee that the credentials have been accepted and/or of the Exams Committee that the candidate has passed the written part of the exam.
  2. To be sent to the Executive Secretary of the College
    1. Application to entry the ECVAA Examination (form AEX) signed and posted and also as an e-mail attachment.
    2. One hard copy of the CV.
    3. A copy of the reference letter from the supervisor. It should be sent directly by the supervisor.
    4. One hard copy of the original paper(s). If the paper is in press, a hard copy must be sent at the time when the paper is published.
  3. To be sent to the Treasurer of the College
    EURO 450 or the equivalent in Pound Sterling.
    
    Please send this money directly to the Treasurer of the ECVAA, Professor RS Jones, 7 Birch Rd, Oxton, Prenton, Merseyside CH43 5UF, U.K. Cheques are to be payable to ECVAA. For payment by Bank transfers, please contact the Treasurer.
2. Practical Information on the written and oral Exams
  Part I: Written Exams
  
  Written exams will be taking place about two months before the oral/practical exams. The written will be in any place with a member of the examinations committee, but the oral/practical will be in one place, as decided by the Board each year. Written examinations will be marked blind.
  
  The maximum duration of the written papers is designed to allow those for whom English is not their first language to have plenty of time. We anticipate that the timing is very generous. It is not necessary for you to use all the time available. The questions remain in the possession of the examiners.
  
  The papers will not necessarily be in the order given here.
  1. Paper 1: Essay - questions. Time allowed - up to 4 hours.
    Four questions.
    
    The candidate is expected to do four questions out of eight. There is a choice. Read them very carefully. You have plenty of time. These questions will cover mainly basic science, equipment, monitoring, pharmacology and physiology possibly related to clinical anaesthesia. The timing of these papers is generous, and it is anticipated that it would take no more than 3 hours for each paper. Marking will be on quality, not quantity. Each answer is expected to be around 3 sides of an A4 paper with normal handwriting (1200-1800 words).
  2. Paper 2: Short Answer - questions. Time allowed - up to 4 hours.
    15 questions, no choice.
    
    These questions cover all aspects of veterinary anaesthesia (basic and clinical). The short questions should be answered in the form of 'Essay-notes'.
    
    Answers should be concise, with facts rather than discussion (unless requested). Lists and note form answers may be used where relevant.
    
    As a guide to the length of answer, they are expected to be half a page of A4 with normal handwriting - with a maximum of one such page (we estimate this as between 200-300 words). Diagrams may be used in addition to this.
  3. Paper 3: Multiple Choice - questions. Time allowed - up to 4 hours.
    100 questions.
    
    These questions will be multiple choice, with one correct answer (although in places this may be 'all of above, 'none of above, answers a and b etc.). Some will ask for the one correct answer, others for the one incorrect answer. Questions are intended to give you the chance to demonstrate a wide range of knowledge.
    
    We are not looking for the obscure, or unusual, but for the answer, knowledge of which is useful in clinical circumstances. The MCQ is positively marked: there is no subtraction for a false answer while no answer is considered a negative answer.
  Part II: Oral and Practical Examinations (day one and two)
  (Please bring protective clothing, and your stethoscope)
  
  There will be 3-4 oral/practical examinations. At least two examiners will participate in each oral, whilst a third will be present as an observer and may participate. These sessions may take up to one hour each, partly to allow for movement between cases. During all oral/practicals, the candidate may be questioned on any aspect of veterinary anaesthesia, and may be given diagnostic material on which to comment (radiographs, ECGs, laboratory reports, etc.). However, there will be some division between the sessions as follows:
  1. Oral/practical 1: The candidate will be given cases (a large and a small animal) to examine.
  2. Oral/practical 2: This will be centred around anaesthetic apparatus, anaesthetic related drugs and monitoring equipment and analgesic techniques.
  3. Oral/practical 3: This will be in the form of a so called "spot-on" session with written answers. The candidate will be asked a question related to a clinical case showing diagnostic material such as radiographs, blood gas reports, laboratory reports, ECGs, capnograms, photographs etc. Up to ten cases may be presented. The time for answering each question is very limited (a few minutes, to be specified later) and the answer is supposed to comprise a few lines only. At the discretion of the examiners also:
  4. Viva: The candidate may be required to attend an anaesthetic procedure.
  5. Final interview: The candidate may be invited for a final interview with all examiners present to discuss points that were raised during the previous sessions and to discuss their submitted material (case reports and records).
Repartition of the Points:
1. Written Examination: A total of 300 points divided as follows: Essay questions, Short Questions and MCQ each 100 points. All questions of the SQ and the EQ session have respectively the same weight.
2. Oral Examination (4 sessions): Total 300 points.
3. OVERALL TOTAL = 600 Points
Candidates are expected to pass MCQ (i.e. achieve 70%) and to obtain an overall pass (50%) in written papers SQ and EQ added together to be admitted to the Oral examination. For the ORALS a 50% pass is necessary.

Appendix IV: Case Reports
1. Example of a Case Report
  Guide for Candidates submitting their credentials in 2010. See also chapters 2.5 and 5.1 & 2.B above.
  
  Please click on this link to download an example of a case report submitted by a recent candidate for the Diploma of the ECVAA.
  
  Three case reports (case-based studies; either single or multiple animals) must be submitted, in a form suitable for publication or already published with the applicant as first author. The case reports have to be relevant to anaesthesia, analgesia-pain management and intensive care. At least one report should be a large or small animal report, respectively.
  
  The Objectives of case reports are:
  - To demonstrate that the Applicant can write a case report in a manner suitable for publication.
  - To demonstrate the candidate’s ability to use the literature in a manner such as to discuss controversial aspects of veterinary anaesthesia.
  Choice of case
  
  It is accepted that not all cases can be original, although originality will be an advantage. However, the case must be interesting, providing challenges of anaesthetic management, and raise questions and possibly controversies, worthy of discussion at a specialist level. Poor marks for discussion may reflect a poor choice of case.
  
  Presentation of the case
  
  The 3 case reports should be in English. If they are published in another language, candidates should provide a full translation in English (for marking purposes).
  
  The case report should contain a title page, an abstract, an introduction, description of the case, a discussion, acknowledgements and references. Ideally the topic for a case should be original, but it is appreciated that this is not always possible. The choice of case, therefore, may be such as to enable the candidate to provide a useful discussion on a relevant topic; for example where there may be controversy on potential treatments. When marking the case reports, particular emphasis is placed on the quality of the discussion (see below).
  
  Format of text and references for any unpublished reports should be similar. The maximum length is 3000 words NOT including title, tables, figures or, references. A word count should be provided on the title page. Font size 12 and 1.5 line spacing should be used throughout. Harvard style of referencing should be used and references should be limited to the most relevant. Tables and graphs should be kept to the minimum to facilitate understanding of patient care.
  
  The case reports should be submitted electronically (by e-mail, or if necessary on disc) and for each case, should include one version in pdf-format and a second anonymous version in word format. These should be sent electronically to the Chair of The Credentials and Education Committee. To make the case report anonymous means the removal of author’s name and work address and removal of any indication of the place where the work was done such as trade names of drugs, and addresses of any manufacturers of machines and drugs. In the word-format version, please ensure that you have removed all electronic traces of the changes you have made.
  
  Examples of case reports can be found in the literature e.g. in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia 2001, 28, 56-59. The writing of a case report is also described e.g. in.: "How to write a paper", by George M. Hall, BMJ Publishing Group, 1994.
2. Marking Scheme for case reports
  Marking Scheme for 2010.
  
  Each case report is marked on 2 major areas:
  1. Description and presentation.
  2. Quality of discussion.
  Marking in each area will be on a scale of 6 points: 6 = outstanding, 5 = good, 4 = just adequate, 3 = just inadequate, 2 = inadequate and poor, 1= very poor. A score of zero is given if no case is presented.
  
  Marks for discussion are then doubled. The maximum marks for any one case is therefore 18. The pass mark for that case is 12 points (ie averaging ‘just adequate). Normally it is expected that all three cases should reach a ‘pass’ grade, although some compensation between cases may be allowed at the discretion of the credentials committee.
  
  The descriptors for each area are as follows:
  
  Description and presentation
  
  6 - Excellent. The case and its treatment are fully and concisely described. Presentation is of a very high standard, and the format is as exactly as described above. References in text and reference list are always correctly presented. If refereed for VAA the referee would accept the presentation with no changes at all – the case is already perfectly presented.
  
  5 - Good. The case and its treatment are fully and concisely described. Presentation is of a good standard, and the format is in general as described above. References in text and reference list are, in the main, correctly presented. If refereed for VAA the referee would accept the presentation with only very minor changes, which could be made at the Editorial stage.
  
  4 - Just adequate. The case and its treatment are adequately described to justify the discussion, although the reader may be left with some minor questions. There may be quite a lot of typing errors and a naive style. Presentation may differ in one or two respect from that of the guidelines (e.g. the word count may exceed the limit by up to 10%) and/or there may be one or two mistakes referencing. If refereed for VAA the referee would return to Author for corrections, but would be happy for the Editor to ensure they were done.
  
  3 - Just inadequate. After reading the case description the reader is left with several questions, which, if refereeing the report, they would want answering before considering acceptance. There may be a lot of typing errors, or some very poor use of English. Presentation does not follow the guidelines either in several smaller respects or in one major respect (word limit more than 10% more than the guidelines; lack of abstract etc. many referencing mistakes). If refereed for VAA the referee would return to Author for major corrections and request that they viewed it again before it could be considered for acceptance.
  
  2 - Poor. The case description is very poor, and totally inadequate as a basis for the subsequent discussion. There may be many typographical errors, many major errors of English, and/or many referencing errors. There may be many departures from the guidelines. If refereed for VAA the referee would reject on presentation grounds.
  
  1 - Very poor. The case description is very poor; is incomplete, and does not give enough information even to start the discussion. The content may be so minimal that there are not errors in production, or there may be very many typographical errors, very many major errors of English which may make the description incomprehensible, and/or there may be very many referencing errors. If refereed for VAA the referee would reject totally on presentation grounds.
  
  Discussion
  
  6 - Excellent. The discussion is of exceptional interest through the choice of case – either because of its originality, or because it raised controversy over some point in relation to anaesthesia. All the relevant points are chosen for discussion, which considers the treatment/mistreatment of the case and other courses of action available. It is self-critical where relevant. During the discussion the author demonstrates a wide knowledge of the current literature, and the ability to uses the literature to discuss or to defend their actions.If refereeing for VAA the referee would accept with no changes: it is perfect.
  
  5 - Very good. All the relevant points are chosen for discussion, which considers the treatment/mistreatment of the case and other courses of action available. It is self-critical where relevant. During the discussion the author demonstrates knowledge of the current literature, and uses such references in all the relevant areas. If refereeing for VAA the referee would accept with minimal changes.
  
  4 - Just adequate. Most relevant points are chosen for discussion, but there may be important points not considered. It demonstrates some self-criticism where relevant. Discussion of the treatment/mistreatment of the case and other courses of action available is made with reference to the current literature, but this may be limited, or there may be an over-use of non-evidence based textbook quotes. If refereeing for VAA the referee would accept with changes, which they would wish to see before acceptance.
  
  3 - Just inadequate. Although several points are discussed, the most relevant may not be. Self-criticism, where relevant, is inadequate. References to support discussion of the treatment/mistreatment of the case and other courses of action available are inadequate. There may be an over-use of non-evidence based textbook quotes. If refereeing for VAA the referee would accept with changes, which they would wish to see.
  
  2 - Poor. The relevant points are not discussed, or if they are, are not adequately referenced. The author is inadequately self-critical of the handling of the case and doesn't demonstrate much knowledge of the current literature in the field. If refereeing for VAA the referee would reject.
  
  1 - Very poor. Discussion is totally absent or is irrelevant and/or where relevant, the candidate does not show any self-criticism, suggesting that they are complacent and unaware of any errors they may have made. They do not demonstrate any knowledge of the current literature in the field. It would be rejected for VAA.
Appendix V: Case Records
For those commencing Residencies in 2008.

Summary of requirements

Candidates must keep a complete record of all anaesthetics given. Three hundred (300) of these records must be presented for approval of credentials.

Approval of format of records

Residents are advised to ensure, at the start of their Residency, that the records they use have been approved by the Credentials and Education Committee. If the form of the records are changed during the Residency, approval for this change must be obtained.

The records used at Approved Centres will have been submitted at the original and/or quinquenial re-approval of such Centres. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that the records that they use are those which have received such approval.

Candidates undertaking an alternative programme must submit for approval the records that they will use together with their original application for enrolment. If, when undertaking a rotation at an Approved Centre, the candidate wishes to use that Centre’s record (instead of their own approved version), it is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that the Centre’s record has been approved.

Electronic records will not be accepted unless the exact format of what is to be submitted has been approved by the Credentials and Education Committee prior to the commencement of the Residency.

Records required

At least 100 records should be in small animals, 100 in horses, 25 in farm animals and 10 in non-domestic animals. At least 50% of the overall total should be clinical cases.

The majority of records should demonstrate relevant post-operative care and pain management.

To substantiate the experience gained in intensive care, at least fifteen (15) cases should include further details of such intensive care. At least three (3) such cases must be of large animals, and three (3) of small animals. Up to a maximum of five (5) cases illustrating intensive care in animals which did not undergo anaesthesia may be included to fulfill this requirement.

Submitted case records should normally be of cases of general anaesthesia, exceeding 15 minutes duration, which were carried out during the candidate’s residency period and at an establishment in which there is a ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate as a supervisor. The candidate should have been primary anaesthetist, or actively participating as a senior member of the anaesthesia team. A number of case records may be excepted from these rules as detailed below.
1. Up to 30 case records involving sedation and local analgesia for surgery may be included. Local nerve blocks for diagnostic purposes are not acceptable.
2. A maximum of 5 cases of less than 15 minutes duration may be included if they (or a series of such) are being used to illustrate a specific technique (e.g. TIVA for field castration in a horse).
3. Up to 60 records (20%) may be from anaesthetics carried out at establishments other than the primary site of the residency in order to gain experience not otherwise available. Such records must not come from the first year of the Residency and should be accompanied by a statement from the Resident’s supervisor stating that, if not supervised by a ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate, the supervision at the alternative site was at a suitable level of expertise appropriate to the situation. For Alternative Residencies, the use of records for approval of credentials from anaesthetics carried out at establishments where there is not a ECVAA or ACVA Diplomate supervision must be approved by the Credentials and Education Committee prior to submission, and requests must be accompanied by a statement from the supervisor justifying the reason for the request. Such permission will be granted only in special circumstances, such as for situations where European/American Diplomate supervision can be difficult to obtain (e.g. primates; zoo animals etc).
4. The Credentials and Education Committee accept that the Resident may not be documented as primary anaesthetist when working in rotations outside the normal place of their Residency.
5. Prior permission from the Credentials and Education Committee must be gained if a Candidate wishes to submit records obtained during experience gained outside the period of the residency.
Format and content of Case Records

An anaesthetic record should represent a legal record of significant events and illustrate recognition of trends in monitored parameters. It is expected that the case records presented can be used as such should a medico-legal problem arise.

Details of the pre-anaesthetic examination, recovery and immediate post-anaesthetic period should be presented. Peri-operative and subsequent pain management must be included where-ever relevant. The record should include all drugs administered, noting the dose, time and route of administration. Monitored parameters should be recorded on a regular basis of a minimum of ten minute intervals and consist of the essential clinically obtainable cardio-respiratory parameters and signs of anaesthetic depth.

Records involving sedation and local analgesia should include full details of sedation including drug doses, efficacy of sedation and regular monitoring (at a minimum of 10 minute intervals) of vital signs of the sedated animal. There should be a detailed description (in English and such that the reader could repeat the block) of the local blocks utilised, and the efficacy of analgesia should be reported.

The arrangement and individual components of the record can be varied. The language of the record is preferably English. Other languages are allowed but if the language used is such that the marking process cannot be carried out by the Credentials and Education Committee, at the time of approval of the form the Credentials and Education Committee will request that the Resident annotates the record in English. If electronic records are used in the Resident’s establishment, then the Resident is required to transfer the data to an approved hand-written record form for submission unless, prior to commencement of the Residency, they have been excused by the Credentials and Education Committee of this requirement.

Intensive care (beyond that of normal post-operative care and presented to meet the requirements for 15 such cases) should be presented in the form of a summary (in English) detailing procedures, fluid therapy, pain relief, ventilation, biochemistry, nutrition and outcome as relevant. Copies of multiple pages of daily treatment sheets are NOT acceptable.

Examples of suitable peri-operative records are appended to assist the candidate in recognising the detail of reporting required, as is a list of the main points that, where relevant, should be highlighted in the intensive care summary.

Appendix VI: Fees

The fees are payable to the Honorary Treasurer Prof RS Jones.

A cheque should be made payble to ECVAA.

For information on other paying modalities please contact the Treasurer at:

7 Birch Rd, Oxton, Prenton
Merseyside CH43 5UF
U.K.

E-mail: ronald@rsjones.freeserve.co.uk

Fee for enrolment of a candidate: 450 Euros or 300 Sterling Pounds (enrolment can only become effective when the fee has been paid).

Fee for examination of a candidate: 450 Euros or 300 Sterling Pounds (should accompany the application form due 1^st March of the year the candidate intends to sit the exam).

The resit fee is one third of the total fee for each part that a candidate must resit. With the current fee of 450 Euros (300 Sterling Pounds) this is 150 Euros (100 Sterling Pounds) per part failed plus 50 Euros administrative fee. The different parts are the examination of credentials, the written exams and the oral/practical exams.

Appendix VII: Useful resources

Download the file.
Information about veterinary anaesthetic literature in general can slso be found on the AVA website http://www.ava.eu.com.