Veterinary Nursing5 things you didn’t learn in schoolYour clinical skill set is important, of course, but there’s more to being a veterinary technician if you want to thrive and survive.Pet InsuranceTake the lead on pet insuranceVeterinary technicians are in a great position to raise the topic of pet insurance — and all its benefits — with clients.Personal/Professional DevelopmentSee You at the CEWhether accomplished at conferences, online or during lunch and learns, veterinary continuing education is important for skillset development and career advancement.Personal/Professional DevelopmentThe road aheadA support position doesn’t have to be a lifetime job. You have other options in the veterinary field if you’re motivated to do something else.Personal/Professional DevelopmentWhat gets you down?Suffering from burnout, compassion fatigue or work-life issues? Make time for yourself, and distance yourself from what causes you the most stress. Veterinary NursingWield Your InfluenceWhat a veterinary nurse says and does can make the difference between a pet owner following a recommended treatment plan or rejecting it altogether.Client CommunicationYou Make the CallCall the day after any medication is dispensed. Ask if the client is having issues administering the drug and whether the pet is having side effects.Patient CareGray mattersMany practices have developed patient care models to address and resolve specific age-related conditions. Government/RegulationsUh-oh, it’s OSHARegular and structured safety training is an OSHA requirement. Employees must be trained upon hiring, when OSHA standards change, and annually. Patient CareThe royal treatmentRemember to keep the patient warm, comfortable and observed throughout recovery.Page 3 of 41234
