Veterinary Assistant

The Veterinary Assistant assists the veterinarians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintain 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 education 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