Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare surgery schedules
- Prepare and prioritise surgery schedules using industry terminology in consultation with the veterinarian and theatre nurse
- Prepare and collate consent forms, anaesthesia monitoring records and other surgical documentation according to practice policy
- Manage surgery schedule in cooperation with the veterinarian
- Prepare for surgical procedures
- Communicate effectively with veterinarian and clients in relation to surgical preparation, procedures and post-recovery needs
- Select and position surgical packs, equipment and supplies for scheduled procedures
- Perform routine surgical site preparation procedures, including clipping, preparation of skin, and positioning animal
- Position anaesthetic machine and monitoring equipment
- Confirm that staff are appropriately dressed for surgery
- Provide support for surgical routines
- Hold, restrain or position anaesthetised animals during the surgical procedure
- Provide sterile and non-sterile assistance to the veterinarian according to aseptic techniques
- Provide theatre equipment to the veterinarian as required
- Dispose of clinical and other waste in compliance with biosecurity and hazardous waste protocols
- Perform post-operative procedures
- Clean, maintain and store theatre instruments, equipment and supplies
- Clean theatre environs
- Clean and sterilise instruments and theatre linen according to relevant Australian Standards
- Handle and store sterilised instruments and theatre equipment in a manner that maintains sterility
- Maintain equipment and stock of supplies
- Implement equipment maintenance procedures to ensure machines are operational