Description

This position is primarily responsible for providing support to Emergency Physicians and for the care of emergency patients.  This includes taking radiographs, following treatment plans, administering drugs, monitoring vital signs, and over-all patient assessment. Communication with referring DVM’s, CWVS Specialists and clients is an integral part of the role. All duties are conducted under the direct supervision of CWVS ER Doctors and Specialists.


When there are no emergencies, this position supports both the ICU and Wards Departments in the management of patient care.


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists with admission of patients through the Emergency Service, including initial patient triage on presentation
• Assists with initial diagnostics, and performs technical nursing skills such as: IV catheter placement, blood collection, urine collection (cystocentesis, catheterization), taking radiographs, etc.
• Calculates, dispenses and administers medication at the direction of the Criticalist or Doctor on the case
• Ensures that while monitoring patient status, any changes, updates or concerns are reported to the Criticalist or Doctor
• Ensures that procedures, materials, treatments etc. are accurately documented on computerized software in advance of daily invoicing
• Communicates with clients regarding nursing updates, as required or as directed by the Doctor
• Documents all patient information, while on shift, including patient history and status, and ensures that this information is transmitted adequately and in a time-sensitive manner at shift change during oral rounds
• Keeps the Emergency area clean, stocked and organized appropriately
• Trains/mentors new Technicians and Assistants
• Assists with the sedation of patients
• Provides anesthesia support as needed
• Actively participate in and successfully complete company provided sedation and GA training programs, and all in house CE, as offered and/or scheduled
• When not involved in emergency cases, assists in the Wards and ICU departments

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough understanding of all common drugs/medications used in the Emergency department and ICU, procedures and protocols within the ER, as well as the ability to use all equipment safely and effectively
• Knowledge of hospital guidelines and protocols
• Knowledge of common critical disease processes and injuries
• Ability triage effectively and establish priorities within the Emergency service
• Ability to respond effectively and appropriately to stressful situations and individuals
• Ability to remain calm in emergencies
• Ability to quickly recognize change in patient status
• Ability to lead, mentor, and teach
• Demonstrated computer skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High level of professionalism
• Strong desire to learn and excel within the profession

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduate of an accredited program for Veterinary Technologists
• VTS (ECC) designation preferred or desire to become specialized
• Demonstrated skills, experience and training that would qualify the individual for a position of responsibility within the ERCC, ICU and Wards

WORKING HOURS

• 3, 12-hour shifts from 11:00 – 00:00, Saturday – Monday
• Schedule is subject to change depending on operational needs.