The Art of Assisting Surgery

Surgical nursing elevates the role of the veterinary technician to a critical member of the surgical team.

Preoperative Duties

• Preparing surgical instruments and supplies.
• Shaving and aseptically prepping the surgical site.
• Monitoring anesthesia and patient vitals.

Intraoperative Assistance

• Maintaining sterility in the operating room.
• Passing instruments to the veterinarian.
• Handling tissue samples for diagnostics.

Postoperative Care

• Monitoring recovery from anesthesia.
• Managing pain and wound care.
• Updating records and communicating with pet owners.

Real-World Skills

A skilled surgical nurse can mean the difference between a smooth surgery and complications.