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Veterinary Assistant DEMO - Unit 1 - Page 7 |
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Maintaining a Safe Facility continued It is wise to adopt a "clean-as-you-go" mentality in the veterinarian's office. A fresh-smelling facility is important to the clients that bring their pets to the office because it is reassuring that the office is clean and well-maintained. Often, the veterinarian will employ a cleaning crew that will keep the facility clean, but the employees must do their part during the day as well. Veterinary offices must present an immaculate appearance because clients relate this to the quality of care that is offered to their animals. Equipment must be maintained and in good working order so that all of the animals can be cared for efficiently. The needs of the actual patients, the animals in the clinic, must be taken into consideration just like the needs of human patients in a physician's office. There must be a place that the animals can exercise and empty their bowels and bladder. Many facilities have an outside area that is used for this purpose, and this helps to decrease odor in the facility and reduces the potential for the spread of disease. The cages that the animals inhabit must also be kept very clean. The veterinary assistant must remember to treat the animals as if it were their own pet staying at the facility. Most facilities have a morning and evening cleaning routine and the veterinary assistant may be assigned duties during both time periods. Safety Hazards Any medical office has its share of hazards, but this is especially true of the veterinarian's office. Since animals cannot speak with words, the veterinary staff may find the response to a needle poke as a scratch or a kick, even a bite! The veterinary assistant must learn to use caution when handling animals and assisting the veterinarian. Needles, scalpels, and other sharps must be properly disposed of according to OSHA guidelines. The staff should be careful with any animal that has an infection and use sterile or clean techniques in these situations. Each exam room must have a thorough cleansing after animals are treated. Veterinary clinics that treat larger animals, such as horses, may find safety hazards around the heavy gates and their latches that keep the animals penned in. Some animals will be lifted, or heavy bags of food, may cause injury if the lifting is not performed correctly. Veterinary assistants must also limit exposure to the various drugs and chemicals that are used in the practice, including x-rays. |