Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare and assist with the preparation of veterinary drugs and poisons in a veterinary practice.
The unit applies to veterinary nurses who work under the supervision of a registered veterinarian in a veterinary practice. Veterinary nurses who assist with the preparation of veterinary drugs and poisons for animals need to hold and apply specialised knowledge of animal pharmaceuticals, and the relevant legislation and regulations that apply to working with veterinary drugs and poisons.
Regulatory requirements apply to veterinary nurses but vary according to state/territory jurisdictions. Users must check with the relevant regulatory authority before delivery.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Profile physiological features of nominated animal relevant to health and application of treatments | 1.1 Identify animal health, nutritional needs and medication, under supervision 1.2 Determine veterinary drugs and poisons known to produce allergic or toxic reactions in nominated animal 1.3 Identify methods of administration for treatments and medications |
2. Prepare veterinary drugs and poisons under supervision of a veterinary surgeon | 2.1 Identify and comply with relevant legislation for preparing veterinary medicines 2.2 Identify drug schedules and drug classes 2.3 Identify classes and effects of veterinary medicines 2.4 Follow veterinarian’s instructions for preparation of medicine 2.5 Prepare packaging for pharmaceutical following instructions 2.6 Update animal clinical record as directed 2.7 Update practice record of (non S8) drugs dispensed, for sign off by veterinarian 2.8 Secure (non S8) drug store according to legislation |
3. Provide support for veterinary drugs and poisons under supervision | 3.1 Assist with providing veterinary pharmaceuticals to animal owner 3.2 Explain dosage requirements to client 3.3 Explain possible commonly listed side effects of veterinary drugs and poisons 3.4 Explain how to administer products 3.5 Explain follow-up treatment plan recommended by veterinarian |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Oral Communication | Listen to and clarify veterinarian’s instructions |
Numeracy | Calculate required dosages of drugs Carry out cash or credit card sale of product |
Get the work done | Address irregularities and contingencies in the context of the work role |
Sectors
Veterinary Nursing (VET)