EPA 9

Summary

Perform a post mortem examination, including macroscopic description and appropriate sampling. 

Description

Perform a post mortem examination relevant to your role, including accurate recording of macroscopic description and sampling for further investigations including histopathology and microbiology.

Demonstrate knowledge of the purpose of the post mortem examination and ensure adequate health and safety precautions are observed. Ensure an adequate history is obtained and considered prior to starting the post mortem, and that attention is given to consistent methods for examination of the carcass using knowledge of anatomy.

Record relevant macroscopic findings and appropriate sampling and preservation of tissues and fluids to allow confirmation of diagnosis if required.

Demonstrate required knowledge of the cost benefit of further diagnostic tests. Demonstrate knowledge of common post mortem artefacts, pathological changes and actions to be taken if notifiable or zoonotic disease is suspected.

Success criteria 

To demonstrate expertise and proficiency in performing a post mortem examination across a range of different:

• Animal species
• Clinical presentations
• Required outcomes from the examination (for example, interest vs medico-legal) relevant to your role. Include attention to health and safety of self and others and effective communication with colleagues, clients and competent authority
You should also demonstrate an understanding of your own abilities, including knowledge of when to seek specialist advice.

Required competencies

The 2022 RCVS Day One Competences encompass a range of domains that may be relevant to this EPA. However, the key areas involved in performing this activity/practice are as follows:

Veterinary capability

• Clinical reasoning
• Individual animal
• One Health/public health
• Animal population care and management

Reflective relationships

• Communication
• Collaboration

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