Veterinary Assistant - Surgery Recovery

Summary:

The Surgery Recovery Veterinary Assistant at Beacon Veterinary Specialists is responsible for the safe, smooth, and efficient transition of patients from anesthesia to full consciousness, providing continuous monitoring and support throughout the post-anesthetic recovery period.

This role requires close attention to patient status, effective interdepartmental communication, and the ability to anticipate and respond to post-operative needs. A strong working knowledge of commonly used perioperative medications and anesthetic agents is essential, including their drug classes, durations of action, physiological effects, potential adverse reactions, and contraindications. 

Post-Anesthesia Patient Care:

• Monitor post-operative patients during anesthetic recovery, including vital signs, pain assessment, and return to full consciousness
• Recognize and promptly respond to abnormal recovery patterns and anesthetic complications
• Operate, interpret, and troubleshoot patient monitoring equipment (ECG, pulse oximetry, blood pressure monitors, capnography, etc.)
• Administer post-operative medications as directed, including analgesics, anti-emetics, and sedatives
• Prepare and administer blood products and associated testing
• Perform basic interpretation of laboratory results to support safe recovery management
• Place and maintain indwelling urinary catheters, IV catheters, and nasogastric tubes as needed
• Perform pre and post-operative radiographs, including orthopedic views, using proper positioning and safety protocols
• Understand how loco-regional anesthesia (nerve blocks, epidurals) affects postoperative ambulation and urination, and monitor accordingly
• Implement post-surgical care protocols tailored to  species, procedure type, and disease profile to optimize patient comfort and outcomes

Outpatient Care

• Assist the Doctor Assistant (DA) with outpatient technician appointments including, but not limited to:
  • Suture removals
  • Bandage/ splint changes
  • Sedated procedures and recovery
  • Radiographs
  • Obtain lab samples (via venipuncture, cystocentesis, wound cultures, etc)
• Assist DA’s in preparing the patient for discharge following hospitalization:
  • Remove IV catheter, urinary catheter, and place harness (when applicable)
  • Help ensure the patient is clean, dry, and ready to be discharged to the owner
  • Double check surgical discharges and prescribed medications to go home are accurate and complete

Responsibilities:

• Keep accurate and thorough patient charting, with an understanding of normal and abnormal vital signs and trends
• Communicate clearly with the veterinary team regarding patient status, concerns, and recovery progress
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked recovery area to ensure patient safety and comfort
• Support the anesthetic team with patient prep, radiographs, and updating treatments and charges
• Support as needed with surgical discharges
• Support DA’s in providing clinical support for outpatient appointments 

REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience working as a veterinary assistant, with at least 1–2 years of direct experience in surgical/anesthesia recovery, emergency, critical care, or specialty practice preferred
• Continuing education in anesthesia, pain management, or critical care is highly desirable
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow strict protocols
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended period