Animal Nursing and Surgical Assistance for the VT

Description

Proper identification, use, care and maintenance of all equipment is continued. Administration of medications by different routes is taught. The student will learn techniques for venipuncture, catheterizations and urine and vaginal sample collection. Fluid therapy is covered in depth, instruction includes general nursing care of hospitalized patients, orphans, newborns, post-parturient dams, and principles of pain management. The student will be instructed on basic procedures such as vaginal exams, care of tracheotomy, pharyngostomy and chest tube sites, preparation of wounds and abscesses for treatment. The student will be able to discuss and/or perform all procedures covered and identify any common complications. Students will learn veterinary first aid procedures and emergency protocols. Humane euthanasia and maintenance of legal record and log books is covered. Identification, use, care and maintenance of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies is covered in detail. Students learn to prepare facilities, patients and equipment for surgical procedures with strict adherence to principles of sanitation and sterilization. Students will participate in surgical procedures as a surgical assistant and will learn to pass instruments, care for exposed tissue and provide suction or cautery. Students become responsible for post-operative cleanup of the patient, equipment and facilities and follow up with patient monitoring and surgical records.