Veterinary Assistant/Technician - Surgery Recovery

Summary:

The Surgery Recovery Technician/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 in a veterinary setting, with at least 1–2 years of direct experience in surgical/anesthesia recovery, emergency, critical care, or specialty practice preferred
• Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) preferred; experienced Veterinary Assistants with a demonstrated skill set will be considered
• 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