Description
Perform advanced diagnostic testing and clinical procedures to support veterinarians in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of animal diseases. Collect and process samples; prepare biologics; operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory and imaging equipment; and ensure quality control and biosafety. Provide anesthesia and surgical assistance, nursing care, and client education under veterinary supervision.
- • Set up and turn over surgery and treatment areas.
- • Induce and monitor anesthesia under veterinary supervision; adjust anesthetic delivery per protocol.
- • Provide perioperative and postoperative nursing care and monitoring.
- • Prepare and administer prescribed medications, vaccines, serums, and treatments.
- • Perform hematology, urinalysis, cytology, and fecal diagnostics; interpret preliminary results.
- • Provide emergency triage and first aid, including CPR, under veterinary direction.
- • Collect, process, and label samples for culture, PCR, serology, or microscopy.
- • Clean, sterilize, and package instruments and materials.
- • Anticipate and provide required instruments and supplies during procedures.
- • Prepare and dispense prescriptions; measure dosages and label per regulations.
- • Prepare patients for surgery, including fasting verification, IV catheter placement, and site prep.
- • Obtain patient histories and collect TPRs, weights, pain scores, and other vitals.
- • Observe behavior, pain, and clinical signs; document and report changes.
- • Acquire diagnostic radiographs and assist with other imaging per safety protocols.
- • Implement quality control, biosafety, and radiation safety protocols.
- • Maintain accurate medical records and manage inventories of drugs, supplies, and equipment.
- • Perform catheterization, enemas, ear flushes, gavage, and IV/enteral fluid or nutritional support.
- • Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory and clinical equipment.
- • Perform dental prophylaxis (scaling and polishing) and dental radiography; assist during extractions.
- • Maintain sanitary kennels, wards, and procedure areas to control infection.
- • Educate clients on preventive care, medications, behavior, and nutrition per veterinary guidance.
- • Assist with humane euthanasia, aftercare, and client support.
- • Clean and bandage wounds; apply splints or protective devices; assist with suturing.
- • Support front-desk tasks as needed, including scheduling, billing, and dispensing products.
- • Perform basic grooming and nail trims when clinically indicated.
- • Assist with specialized procedures such as tattooing, microchipping, or hoof care.
- • Maintain controlled substance inventories and compliant logs.
- • Train and mentor technicians, assistants, and students; enforce SOPs.
- • Monitor medical supplies and place orders to maintain par levels.
- • Perform low-stress handling and restraint for exams and procedures.
- • Communicate case updates and discharge instructions as directed by the veterinarian.
- • Coordinate appointments, procedures, and patient flow.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
