Common Veterinary Technician Procedures – Quick-Review Notes

Nail Trims

Anatomy: Nail (hard outer), quick (vascular inner)
Goals: Prevent overgrowth, paw-pad wounds, infections, traction loss
Risks: “Quicking” ⇒ pain, bleeding, infection
First-aid: Apply styptic powder with gauze, pressure for several seconds

Equipment & Angles

Clippers: Scissor-style preferred; size matched to patient
Extras: Styptic powder, towel/muzzle/assistant for restraint
Cutting angle: 45^\circ; trim 2!{-}!3\,\text{mm} short of quick

Species Tips

Dogs: Comfortably position; include dew claws
Cats: Extend claw gently; start with hind paws
Small mammals/birds: Use small scissor-style clippers only

Anal Gland Expression

Anatomy: Two pea-sized sacs beside rectum; secrete thick, fishy fluid
Normal fluid: Light–dark brown, thick liquid/paste, smooth–slightly granular
Full-gland signs: Scooting, tail-area licking, defecation pain, strong odor, perianal redness/swelling

Procedures

Supplies: Gloves, lube, gauze/paper towels, cleanser, restraint
Internal: Lubricated finger inside rectum, thumb outside; gently milk sac
External: Gauze over anus; squeeze sac between thumb & forefinger
Clean area post-expression

Stop & Refer

Presence of blood, pus, open wounds, marked redness/swelling ⇒ veterinarian

Suture Removal

Timing: Remove at 10!{-}!14 days post-surgery ➔ too early = dehiscence, too late = irritation
Pre-check incision: Dry, intact skin; no redness, swelling, discharge, odor

Suture Types

Interrupted: Individual knots; remove one by one
Continuous: Single strand; snip at ends, pull in segments

Supplies & Steps

Gloves, suture scissors (hooked), thumb forceps, gauze, saline/disinfectant

Confirm age \ge 10 days
Clean incision
Inspect for infection/dehiscence
Lift knot with forceps
Cut with hook; pull suture out
Count sutures before/after; ensure full removal

Cautions

Never use regular scissors
Stop and consult vet if redness, swelling, discharge, foul odor, gap in incision