Staffing the Practice continued
The veterinary assistant is a vital member of the animal care team, and assists veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Some of the duties of a veterinary assistant include:
- restraining animals during procedures
- assisting with veterinary procedures
- assisting in the nursing care of hospitalized animals
- assisting during surgery
- administering medications as directed by the veterinarian
- applying bandages and splints
- sterilizing instruments
- assisting with bandaging and splints
- assisting with patient education
- filling prescriptions (under the supervision of the veterinarian)
- performing some lab tests
- bathing and exercising animals
- answering phones
- booking appointments
- billing and collections procedures
- assisting with practice management
There are often other positions in the veterinary office, such as a bookkeeper, receptionist, and practice manager, but these duties may be performed by a veterinary assistant as well.
|
