Surgical Assistant (Vwc)

JOB TITLE: Surgical Assistant

DEPARTMENT: Veterinary Wellness Center

REPORTS TO: Manager, Veterinary Wellness Center (CVT)

SUPERVISES: N/A

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt, Full-Time, Hourly

SUMMARY: The Surgical Assistant assists the veterinarian and technicians with patient care services in relation to surgery intake, discharge appointments, post-operative rechecks and wellness exams. This position assists in the preparation of patients for surgery, assists in patient restraint for exams, recovers patients after surgery, and assists in patient discharges. Services of the VWC include high quality, high volume spay neuter (80%) in addition to basic wellness/preventative care (20%).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Know basic veterinary medical concepts, including, but not limited to vaccine protocols and anesthetic risks. Be able to communicate such information to clients.
• Knowledge and ability to intake and release patients, including delivering post-operative instructions in a competent and friendly manner
• Responsible for prepping patients for surgery, observing all clinic procedures, to enforce sterility and safety of patients
  • Organize and maintain pre-operative area and operating room for patient anesthesia
• General duties in the operating room during surgery, assisting with movement of patients, recovery of patients, and general flow
• Able to monitor anesthesia with a clear idea of abnormal conditions
  • Direct all concerns immediately to the Veterinarian
• Able to respond appropriately during an emergency, able to take directions from a veterinarian and/or veterinary technician, and maintain competency in CPR procedures
• Ensure anesthetic machines, pulse oximeters, scales, and other equipment are functional.
  • When equipment is not working properly, report to the Manager, Veterinary Wellness Center (CVT).
• Assists veterinarians and technicians with medical exams as needed; involves but is not limited to fear-free restraint, vaccinations, other injections, intubation and preoperative blood work.
• Clean and sonicate surgical instruments and prepare surgical packs as needed.
• Assist with replenishing supplies in all areas of the hospital as needed
  • Assists the Manager, Veterinary Wellness Center (CVT) with any inventory needs
• Clean and disinfect kennels and equipment
• Supports and follows all SOP’s and verbal instructions provided by the Manager, Veterinary Wellness Center (CVT), Associate Director, Veterinary Operations and/or Director of Veterinary Services
• Cross train and assist in a shelter clinic for Tree House resident cats as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Required 1-year minimum experience in veterinary medical or animal husbandry in a veterinary hospital, shelter or spay/neuter clinic.
• Passion for animals and animal welfare
• Strong background in customer service
• Flexibility with work hours and able to work additional hours when necessary
• Must be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands
• Strong organizational and time management skills, as well as a strong sense of personal accountability
• Excellent verbal communication skills

COMPETENCIES:

Customer Service - Treats customers (internal and external) with respect and courtesy. Shows interest in, anticipates, and responds timely to customer needs and concerns. Goes beyond basic service expectations to help customers. Responds appropriately to and resolves difficult and emotional situations. Seeks ways to improve service delivery.

Diversity - Enthusiastically works with all employees, regardless of race, gender, culture, and age. Values contributions of people from diverse backgrounds. Demonstrates respect for opinions and ideas of others. Shows awareness of and sensitivity to cultural and individual values.

Ethics - Respects and maintains confidentiality. Tells truth and is honest in all dealings. Avoids situations and actions considered inappropriate or which present a conflict of interest. Upholds organizational values. Does not misrepresent self or use position or authority for personal gain.

Teamwork - Listens and responds constructively to others views. Gives and welcomes feedback. Provides assistance to others when they need it. Shares expertise. Acknowledges others effort and contribution. Puts success of team above own interests. Creates a positive work environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to stand, walk and bend over or stoop.
• Occasional exposure to wet and/or humid conditions (non-weather).
• Must occasionally lift and /or move up to 40 pounds.
• May be exposed to unpleasant odors, noises and animal bodily fluids or feces.
• May be exposed to aggressive, ill and/or injured animals, as well as bites, scratches, and infectious (zoonotic) animal diseases.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.