Veterinary Assistants

Job Title: Veterinary Assistant Reports To: Veterinary Assistant Supervisor / Hospital Manager FLSA Status: Non- Exempt OVERVIEW: The Veterinary Assistant assists the veterinarians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintains inventory, prepares prescriptions, performs routine in-house laboratory work, educates clients regarding veterinary care and procedures, and assists with surgical procedures at the Veterinary Hospital. The Veterinary Assistant operates under the supervision of the Veterinary Assistant Supervisor and/or Hospital Manager. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Perform physical exams, treatments, and administer medication as directed by the veterinarian * Prep and assist in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures * Triage patients, perform physical exams and gather brief medical histories * Perform laboratory tests and take radiographs * Operate and maintain hospital equipment, i.e., EKG, fluid pump, syringe pump, scales, syringe pump, anesthetic monitors, and machines * Anesthetize animals and monitor anesthesia under the direction and supervision of the veterinarian * Communicate with clients/owners about the status of patients, as directed by the veterinarian * Fill prescriptions/administer medications, including proper documentation, logging, and security of controlled drugs * Maintain cleanliness of exam rooms (after each patient), reception areas, hospital grounds, and treatment areas, as needed * Clean cages, as needed * Do laundry * Communicate patient status with oncoming staff and veterinarians, and update records and financial information, as needed, in the computer * Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, and/or pain • Communicate and approach job duties in a mature manner * Foster teamwork approach and work well with all levels of hospital team members * Participate in all staff and technician/assistant mandatory staff meetings * Participate in the review process for other technical staff and doctors when requested * Answer phones and perform other reception duties as needed by the hospital * Understand zoonotic disease risks in the work environment and use all appropriate safety equipment, garments, and procedures to protect self and others * Understand and limit the potential exposure to bites, scratches, and potential injuries * Understand that employees in this role are exposed to various cleaning solutions and other chemicals, odors, noises, and animal wastes and behave in a professional manner when dealing with these conditions KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: * Familiarity with Hospital policies and procedures * Clinical laboratory procedures * Medication calculations and administration * Catheter placement * Vital sign monitoring * Client communications * Anesthesiology * Animal restraint * Patient physical assessments * Radiographic technique * Venipuncture EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE: * High School diploma or equivalent * Some continuing education seminars or other educational opportunities in the area of veterinary science * 1+ years of experience in veterinary environment successfully performing all of the duties of this position PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 40 pounds (work requires lifting, carrying, and restraining animals -with assistance from other staff members for animals weighing over 40 pounds Ability to walk or stand for extended periods; frequently working in a bent position WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job the employee is exposed to hazards associated with aggressive patients, hazards associated with infected animals and controlled substances; exposure to unpleasant odors and noises; exposure to bites, scratches, and animal wastes; possible exposure to contagious diseases Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Created: 2024-10-22