Pulmonary dead space in free-ranging immobilized black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) in Namibia.

It was observed previously that end-expired carbon dioxide (P(E)CO2) decreased when immobilized black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) were moved from sternal to lateral recumbency. These experiments were designed to test whether greater alveolar ventilation or greater pulmonary dead space in lateral recumbency explains this postural difference in P(E)CO2. Twenty-one (9 male, 12 female; 15 [3.5-26] yr old) wild black rhinoceroses were immobilized with etorphine and azaperone and positioned in either sternal or lateral recumbency. All rhinoceroses were hypoxemic and had lactic and respiratory acidemia. The animals in lateral recumbency were more acidemic, had higher lactate, and lower arterial oxygen that those in sternal recumbency; however, arterial carbon dioxide was similar between groups. Both P(E)CO2 and mixed expired carbon dioxide pressure were lower in lateral than sternal recumbency. Although there was no difference in tidal volume or arterial carbon dioxide, both the breathing rate and minute ventilation were greater in lateral recumbency. The physiologic dead space ratio and dead space volume were approximately two times larger in lateral recumbency; hence, the decrease in P(E)CO2 in lateral recumbency can be attributed to increased dead space ventilation not increased alveolar ventilation. Positioning immobilized rhinoceroses in lateral recumbency does not confer any advantage over sternal in terms of ventilation, and the increase in minute ventilation in lateral recumbency can be considered an energetic waste. Although arterial oxygen was superior in sternal recumbency, further studies that measure oxygen delivery (e.g., to the muscles of locomotion) are warranted before advice regarding the optimal position for immobilized rhinoceroses can be given with confidence.

Connecting allied health students to rural communities.

CONTEXT: Statewide studies indicate a continuing shortfall of personnel in several allied health disciplines in rural Georgia. National trends indicate lagging enrollment in allied health education programs, suggesting that the workforce shortages will worsen. PURPOSE: This article describes the efforts of the School of Allied Health Sciences at the Medical College of Georgia to increase allied health student participation in interdisciplinary health care services in rural areas of the state during fiscal years 2001-2003. METHODS: Brief program description and results from survey data provided by the student participants, program administrators, and clinical site supervisors. RESULTS: Three-year totals indicate that 98 students (70 female, 28 male) participated and 42% reported low-income status. In line with the goals of the grant, the proportion of minority student participants steadily increased from 5% to 12% over the 3-year period. Rotation locations included 62 designated Health Professional Shortage Area counties, 71 federally designated Rural Health Clinics, and 6 Community Health Clinics. At the conclusion of the students' rural health care experience, 76% (55/72) responded positively when asked: If you had the opportunity, would you accept employment at the rotation health care site? CONCLUSIONS: The project appears to be positively affecting allied health students' perceptions and opinions of rural health practices and willingness to work in rural areas. Although long-term goals have yet to be accomplished, early indicators show benefits to the students and the community at-large, suggesting that the current program strategies are appropriate connectors between allied health students and rural communities.