Kirby's Rule of 20

The following Kirby’s Rule of 20 is designed to educate veterinary professionals on the core principles of structured critical patient monitoring, whole-patient assessment, organized reassessment, and effective communication in veterinary emergency and critical care settings.

What you will learn:

• Understand the purpose and structure of Kirby’s Rule of 20

• Identify the key monitoring parameters used in critical care

• Recognize how multiple body systems interact in critically ill patients

• Apply a whole-patient approach and avoid narrow clinical focus

• Understand the importance of trend monitoring and reassessment

• Recognize the role of supportive care in patient stability and recovery

• Apply the framework to support communication and escalation

Once completed, you will receive a certificate of completion to verify successful completion of the training. Course Length: 45 minutes.

The information contained in this training was derived from publications of the MSD Veterinary Manual. None of the planners, authors, or instructors for this activity have any relevant financial relationships to disclose. The Government Sourced Material used by AMC is available at no charge on the associated agency websites. The use of Government Sourced Material by AMC does not imply endorsement or recommendation by the MSD Veterinary Manual, or the United States Government, of AMC, its enterprise, facility, services, or products. © 2026 American Medical Compliance; no copyright is claimed in Government Sourced Material. If you are not completely satisfied with this course within 30 days you will receive a full refund.