Copy 1 of pharmacy tech

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. 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

  • Triage patients, perform physical exams, and gather brief medical histories 

 • 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
• Client communications
• Animal restraint
• Have an understanding of basic medication used in veterinary medicine
• Create drug labels and fill medication  
• Answer phone calls
• Discuss treatment plan with owner
• Have a basic understanding of common treatments performed in a veterinary hospital
• Discharge clients and discuss medication  

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