Veterinary Nurses

Veterinary Nurses care for animals under treatment and in temporary residence at veterinary facilities and assist Veterinarians to perform procedures and operations.

**Indicative skill level:**

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

#### In Australia:

- AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

#### In New Zealand:

- NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

**Tasks include:**

- holding animals to allow examination and treatment by Veterinarians - cleaning and sterilising examination tables and equipment - preparing instruments and handing them to the Veterinarian - assisting Veterinarians to administer anaesthetics and oxygen during operations - placing animals in cages for recovery from operations and monitoring their condition - giving medications to animals - maintaining stock control and records - providing animal care advice, and preparing, delivering, and reviewing animal care education programs - may perform diagnostic laboratory tests - may act as receptionist, accept payments, and undertake clerical work