New iSTAT Chemical Analyzer for SRS Health Monitoring

Thanks to a kind donation from an anonymous donor (worth in excess of $5,000), the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary (SRS) now has an important new tool, a portable iSTAT chemical analyzer, to be used in regular monitoring of the health of the sanctuary rhinos.
The iSTAT unit is designed to measure important clinical parameters needed to help treat animal patients. It will provide critical diagnostic information such as blood gas values, acid-base status, body electrolytes, and select clinical chemistry information.
The generous donation of the iSTAT will help the SRS maintain the highest possible level of health care for these rare rhinos.
Examples of the ways the iSTAT can be used in a clinical setting include:

• Measurement of pH, bicarbonate, base excess to monitor acid-base status
• Measurement of PO2, PCO2, and sO2 to monitor respiratory function underanesthesia and during disease states such as pneumonia, allergic reactions, etc.
• Measurement of sodium (Na), potassium (K) and ionized calcium (iCa) for maintaining critical electrolyte balances during disease states and to implement the most effective fluid therapy decisions.

Dr. Robin W. Radcliffe, DVM, DACZM
Rhino Conservation Medicine Program
The Rhino Conservation Medicine Program is housed at Cornell University, and led by Dr. Robin Radcliffe, DVM/DACZM. Dr. Radcliffe is one of the few veterinarians in the world certified by the American College of Zoological Medicine with a specialty in wildlife. Dr. Radcliffe teaches at the veterinary school at Cornell and oversees the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia.
IRF needs your help to continue providing veterinary support for rhino conservation efforts around the world. Visit our website to learn more about how you can help us protect rhinos.