The Intensive Care Unit has a team of specialist veterinarians and qualified nurses who provide 24-hour care for critically-ill neonates, adults and post-operative patients.
The ICU is run under the supervision and guidance of Dr Niamh Collins, a registered specialist in Equine Medicine. Niamh, in conjunction with Equine Medicine Specialists Dr Catherine Russell, Dr Rosemary Cuming, Dr Lucy Cudmore and Dr Brianna Clark provide the veterinary expertise to care for local patients as well as referrals from all over New South Wales and southern Queensland. These veterinarians participate in regular international and local seminars, research projects and the teaching of local and international interns and veterinarians. Through this regular contact with veterinary specialists in Australia and overseas we ensure the latest diagnostic procedures and treatments are available for the patients.
A team of local and international nurses provide the patients with the best possible nursing care. This service is one of the greatest assets of the ICU and ensures that patients are provided with 24-hour expert care and comfort. The nurses are also leaders in their field and provide training for local and international students.
As part our annual Rotating Internship program, our interns spend time in the ICU department where they gain skills in the clinical assessment and treatment of the intensive care patient, in particular the equine neonate and post-partum mare. Over 300 critically ill foals are admitted to the hospital during the average breeding season. This provides the intern with the background training and expertise to continue into a residency training program or private practice.