Trans-rectal palpation in cows: An appraisal of its teaching in selected veterinary schools in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Trans-rectal palpation (TRP) is the examination of the internal genitalia of female large animals which is carried out via the rectum and taught mostly during the clinical years of veterinary training. This study was conducted to evaluate the essence of TRP to veterinary medicine programme in Nigerian veterinary schools in Southern Nigeria. Methods: One hundred final year students were randomly selected from two veterinary schools to fill prepared questionnaire. The first part was on bio-data of respondents. The second part tested knowledge of students on anatomy and physiology of reproductive organ/system in cow. The last section dealt with extent of their involvement in TRP, frequency of palpation with live animal, impact of the training on skill development and their confidence on using this technique post-graduation. The data were presented with descriptive statistics (frequent and percentage). Association between frequency of palpation and confidence to employ TRP during clinical service post-graduation was tested with Chi square and statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. Results: More male students (65%) than female (35%) responded to the survey. Most respondents (43%) were within age group 25-30 years compared to <25 and >30 years age groups. The students demonstrated good knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the reproductive tract of cow with 72% having high scores (≥ 75%). The majority of the students (90%) were able to use live animals for TRP exercise, out of which only 25 (28%) had performed palpation on a live cow (≥3×). There was a strong (p > 0.05) association between frequency of palpation and the confidence displayed by respondents to use the method post-graduation. Significance: It is recommended that students should be taught TRP with live animals possibly by being involved in ante mortem inspection of cattle meant for slaughter at the abattoir