Picture this: A skilled professional carefully monitors vital signs while assisting in an emergency surgery on a beloved family pet. Think about being the key support person who helps both animals and their concerned owners through medical procedures, routine check-ups, and critical care situations.
Veterinary technologists and technicians are the backbone of veterinary practices, serving as the animal healthcare equivalent of nurses. They perform laboratory tests, take X-rays, assist in surgical operations, and provide nursing care for animals under the supervision of licensed veterinarians.
Veterinary technologists and technicians experience rapid growth due to increasing pet ownership and advances in veterinary medicine.
Total employment: 125,700 (2023)
Common Names for Veterinary Technologists and Technicians
- Certified Veterinary Technician
- Emergency Veterinary Technician
- Internal Medicine Veterinary Technician
- Licensed Veterinary Technician
- Registered Veterinary Technician
- Veterinarian Technician
- Veterinary Technician
- Veterinary Technologist
What Veterinary Technologists and Technicians Do
Veterinary technologists and technicians play a vital role in animal healthcare, assisting veterinarians in diagnosing, treating, and caring for animals. Core responsibilities include:
- Patient Care & Monitoring: Perform initial patient assessments, monitor vital signs, and provide ongoing nursing care to ensure animal health and recovery during treatment.
- Laboratory Procedures: Collect and analyze blood, urine, and tissue samples to assist veterinarians in diagnosing conditions and determining appropriate treatment plans.
- Surgical Assistance: Prepare surgical equipment, assist during operations, and monitor patients’ vital signs during procedures to support successful veterinary surgeries.
- Medical Treatment Administration: Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians while maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring proper dosing.
- Client Communication: Educate pet owners about animal care, medication instructions, and preventive measures to ensure proper home care and treatment compliance.
- Diagnostic Imaging: Position animals and take X-rays, assist with ultrasounds, and maintain imaging equipment to help veterinarians diagnose medical conditions accurately.
- Emergency Response: Provide first aid and emergency care to animals in critical situations while following established protocols until the veterinarian can intervene.
- Facility Maintenance: Maintain cleanliness of treatment areas, sterilize instruments, and manage inventory to ensure a safe and efficient veterinary practice environment.
Note: While these core responsibilities are universal across most veterinary settings, specific duties may vary based on facility type (private practice, emergency clinic, research facility) and state regulations regarding scope of practice.
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