Introduction to Veterinary Technology, Its Laws and Ethics

Question-and-Answer flashcards covering history, roles, education, examination, professionalism, ethics, law, and daily responsibilities in veterinary technology.

When did the first formal university-level veterinary technology program begin?

In the 1960s.

What term replaced “animal care technician” in 1989?

“Veterinary technician.”

What newer term is increasingly used for veterinary technicians today?

Veterinary nurse.

Name three non-private practice settings where veterinary nurses may work.

Zoos/aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and research or marketing of veterinary products.

What organization created the Committee on Veterinary Technician Specialties (CVTS)?

The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

What credential is earned after completing specialty requirements, education, and testing in a specific discipline?

Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS).

Which body accredits U.S. and Canadian veterinary technology programs?

The CVTEA under the AVMA.

How long are most veterinary technology programs?

They can be 2-year (associate) or 4-year (bachelor) programs.

What must distance-education veterinary technology students do while enrolled?

Work in a veterinary practice.

Why is continuing education (CE) required for veterinary technicians?

To maintain and renew their license, typically every other year.

What exam evaluates entry-level veterinary technician competency?

The Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).

How many scored questions are on the VTNE?

150 (out of 170 total multiple-choice questions).

What prerequisite must candidates meet before taking the VTNE?

Graduation from an AVMA-accredited veterinary technician program.

Which VTNE domain carries the highest percentage weight?

Animal Care & Nursing at 20%.

List four of the ten VTNE domains.

Examples: Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Surgical Nursing, Dentistry, Laboratory Procedures (others acceptable).

Give one criterion that helps define a profession.

It is based on a specific body of knowledge that leads to defined skills, abilities, and conduct (any of the six criteria acceptable).

Who is responsible for independent assessment and nursing care of hospitalized veterinary patients?

Credentialed Veterinary Technicians (CVTs).

What is the first step of the Veterinary Technician Practice Model?

Gather subjective and objective data about the patient.

Which four medical acts are legally restricted to veterinarians?

Prescribing, diagnosing, prognosing, and performing surgery.

Why should reception staff in a veterinary clinic possess medical knowledge?

To accurately communicate with clients and support patient care from first contact.

Name two tasks a veterinary technician performs in radiology.

Positioning the patient and selecting proper exposure settings.

Who typically monitors anesthesia during surgery in small-animal practice?

The veterinary technician acting as anesthetist.

List two duties of a veterinary technician in hospital wards.

Administering medications and continuously evaluating patient progress.

What leadership role can an experienced veterinary technician pursue within a hospital?

Hospital manager.

How many years of veterinary school does a veterinarian complete after undergraduate study?

Four years.

What advanced credential signifies higher expertise in a particular field of veterinary technology?

Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS).

Which team member assists technicians with restraint and basic husbandry but is not credentialed?

Veterinary assistant.

What are the three laboratory animal certification levels offered by AALAS?

Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), and Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG).

Define immediate supervision under NAVTA guidelines.

A licensed veterinarian is within direct eyesight and hearing range.

What aspect of appearance is emphasized for professionalism in the clinic?

Neat, clean, well-fitted uniform and short, unpolished nails.

Give one guideline for professional conduct when conflicts arise.

Address conflicts promptly, privately, and calmly.

Which national professional organization represents U.S. veterinary technicians?

NAVTA (National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America).

Who ultimately decides on an animal’s care in most cases?

The client (owner of the animal).

Under what circumstances may the veterinary team refuse a client’s requested treatment plan?

If it would harm the patient, violate the practice act, or break other laws.

What is the primary state law governing veterinary medicine and technology?

The veterinary practice act.

What is the main purpose of a state board of veterinary medicine?

To protect the public by enforcing the practice act and related regulations.

Name two possible penalties for violating a state veterinary practice act.

Monetary fines and imprisonment (others: license suspension, revocation).

Identify one technical violation that can lead to disciplinary action.

Working while impaired (others: fraud, animal abuse, practicing beyond scope).

What due-process right does a licensee have when notified of disciplinary charges?

The right to a hearing to present a defense.

Which federal act governs the humane use of animals in research and education?

The Animal Welfare Act.

What federal law aims to prevent the extinction of threatened animal species?

The Endangered Species Act.

Why should questions about CBD or cannabis use in animals be referred to the supervising veterinarian?

Because cannabis is federally classified as a controlled substance and clear veterinary guidelines do not yet exist.

What record must veterinary practices maintain when using controlled drugs?

A controlled substance logbook.

Give one example of medical waste generated in a veterinary practice.

Sharps, blood products, or surgical waste.