Cardiac Library

Cardiac Examination

Approaching the cardiac patient requires basic knowledge of what to look for in the patient history, cardiac auscultation technique, diagnostic imaging of the heart, and cardiac electrophysiology. In this section, clinicians can learn to hone these critical skills to get the most from their cardiac exam.

A stethoscope lying on a dark, reflective surface.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

The best stethoscope is not necessarily the most expensive. One expert shares her tips on selecting and using this essential diagnostic tool.

Right side view of a standing adult greyhound with the letter V overlying the axilla with the letter T located slightly above and behind it.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

An accurate physical examination and clinical history allow a clinician to focus the diagnostic workup so that superfluous diagnostic tests can be avoided.

A golden retriever with a hand holding a stethoscope against its chest.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

There are 12 components of a basic cardiology examination. Can you name them all?

A lateral thoracic radiograph of a normal dog with measurements added to evaluate heart size compared to the thoracic vertebrae.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

This cardiologist guides you through calculating a vertebral heart scale, its uses, and interpreting findings.

A cat resting on a cat tree looking into the camera.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

Vertebral heart scale (VHS) is an objective radiographic measurement that can be useful when cardiac disease is suspected. Review how to calculate VHS in cats.

A dog resting.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

Vertebral left atrial size (VLAS) is an objective radiographic measurement that can help determine whether left atrial enlargement is present with suspected or diagnosed myxomatous mitral valve disease. Review how to calculate VLAS in dogs.

A cat in left lateral recumbency while a person holds an ultrasound probe against the left side of the chest.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

Learn key echocardiography views you can put to use in your practice today.

Surgical monitor displaying blood pressure and heart rate readings in the background with a dog restrained in the foreground.
Clinical SkillsClinical Training

Blood pressure measurement is a simple diagnostic procedure that provides a wealth of information. Sharpen your skills with this comprehensive guide to obtaining accurate readings.

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Clinical SkillsClinical Training

This step-by-step guide provides tips for obtaining an accurate diagnostic ECG on every patient, every time.

A brown Doberman pinscher sits outdoors in a grassy area, wearing a collar with tags. The dog has an alert expression, tongue out, and is surrounded by a blurred background of trees and greenery.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

Confident ECG interpretation starts with a systematic approach. Review waveforms, intervals, heart rate calculation, and rhythm identification in this practical guide for small animal practitioners.

A veterinary team member’s hands holding a printed ECG strip.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

How do you interpret ECGs with confidence? This first installment of a two-part series outlines ECG interpretation.

Two hands holding a printed ECG strip against a white background.
Clinical SkillsCardiology

This is the second installment of a two-part series outlining ECG interpretation and addresses bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias.

Keep Your Finger On the Pulse

From podcasts with expert guests to quizzes to test your knowledge, dive deeper into cardiac care with our Cardiac Library.