By Zippia Expert - Aug. 22, 2022 Show A vet nurse provides the supportive care of animals receiving treatment within a veterinary practice, while a vet tech is a professional that specializes in animal care. A vet nurse works in a veterinary office with doctors. A vet nurse can have many responsibilities at work, such as assisting a vet during surgery, providing animals with physical therapy, administering medication and analyzing laboratory specimens to help develop a diagnosis. A vet tech works under the direction of a veterinarian and performs various medical tasks to promote the well-being of animals. Their job duties may include preparing animals for surgery, monitoring them after an operation, administering medication and providing care instructions to owners. Both a vet nurse and a vet tech perform many of the same functions, although there are a few key differences between them:
Vet Nurse or Vet Tech – What’s In a Name?The dream of working in the veterinary field often begins with a child’s first pet. Pursuing a career as a vet tech or a vet nurse is the popular alternative for those animal lovers with limited time or limited finances. A career as a vet tech or vet nurse provides an ever-changing work environment and the opportunity to work closely with animals in a team-based work atmosphere. Debate over the Correct Title The terms vet tech and vet nurse, at this stage, are entirely interchangeable, but things may be changing. According to the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), a debate about whether or not the title of technician is more appropriate than nurse extends across the United States. To that end, NAVTA has introduced The National Credential Initiative
Veterinary Tech (Nurse) The term vet tech refers to either a vet technologist or vet technician. There is very little difference between the two jobs as they both perform many of the same duties. Most technicians work within a privately owned clinic, while technologists have the option to work in more research-based facilities. Role of a Clinical Vet Tech/Nurse Vet techs must work under the direct supervision of a fully licensed veterinarian within a clinic or hospital. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those working in a clinic or animal hospital perform such duties as medical data recording, radiology, drawing blood, urine analysis, etc. In some practices the more seasoned vet tech is trained in and charged with client communication. Vet techs generally work with small animals, such as cats, dogs, birds and mice, but may also work on larger animals, such as sheep, pigs and monkeys. Role of a Research Facility Vet Tech/Nurse Vet nurses/techs qualified to work in a research facility must also work under the supervision of a fully licensed veterinarian. This position requires more accountability and may include administering medication, preparing for lab exams, recording and analyzing animal pedigree, prepping for operations and performing euthanization. Schooling, Training and Opportunity Vet techs/nurses complete a science-focused education. Career candidates should enroll in as many science and biology courses as possible prior to entering a vet tech/nurse program. NAVTA reports “There are over 230 AVMA accredited Veterinary Technology Programs located around the United States. You can earn either an Associate Degree, which takes 2 years or a Bachelor’s Degree, which takes 4 years at the various community colleges, colleges and universities offering a veterinary technology program.” Advancement opportunities include additional responsibilities and the possibility of supervisory positions. What can a vet nurse do?What you'll do. keep the practice and equipment clean and hygienic.. prepare animals for treatment and assist vets during procedures.. give injections, medication and remove stitches.. take x-rays.. take care of in-patient animals.. support and talk to pet owners about treatment and care of their animals.. Whats the difference between vet and nurse?It's vital to remember that a nurse isn't just a junior, inferior copy of, or an assistant to, the vet. The vet's job ultimately is to make decisions on medical and surgical treatment of animals, and then to prescribe treatment or perform surgery.
What is the difference between a veterinary assistant and a veterinary technician?One major difference in these careers is that a veterinary technician works under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian and must pass a credentialing exam. Veterinary assistants work with the veterinarian or veterinary technician and do not need to pass a credentialing exam1.
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