A veterinary technician - or "vet tech" - assists licensed veterinarians with a variety of tasks. They support vets in diagnosing and treating both sick and healthy animals. Some techs work in animal research, while others have clinical roles in vet clinics, zoos, and emergency care hospitals. A veterinary technician may perform the following tasks in their role: preparing animals for surgery, assisting vets during surgery, treating wounded animals, collecting blood and urine samples for lab tests, running diagnostic imaging, monitoring vital signs, and consulting with clients. Regardless of the work setting, it’s important for vet techs to have a strong understanding of the terminology used in the field. Whether you're working in a clinic, animal hospital, or research lab, knowing the language used in your field will help you communicate effectively with your colleagues in order to provide the best possible care for the animals that you treat. Here are some key terms that every vet tech should know.
Anesthesia: The process of administering medication to an animal to induce unconsciousness and prevent pain during surgical or diagnostic procedures.
Pathology: The study of the nature, causes, and effects of disease.
Radiology: The use of imaging technology such as x-rays, ultrasound, and MRI to diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Hematology: The study of blood, including its components, function, and pathology.
Parasitology: The study of parasites and their effects on animals.
Aseptic technique: A set of procedures used to prevent contamination of surgical and other sterile areas by microorganisms.
Intubation: The insertion of a tube into an animal's airway to provide a secure airway during anesthesia or respiratory distress.
Vaccination: The process of administering a vaccine to stimulate an animal's immune system and prevent the development of specific diseases.
Cytology: The study of cells, including their structure, function, and pathology.
Orthopedics: The study of bones, joints, and muscles, including their structure, function, and disorders.
Euthanasia: The humane ending of an animal's life, typically performed to alleviate suffering.
Microbiology: The study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Zoonosis: A disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
The purpose of medical terminology is to create a standardized language for medical professionals. It helps staff communicate more efficiently and it makes documentation easier. Moreover, abbreviations and acronyms are also commonly used in general and clinical settings to simplify work flows. Below are some of the most commonly used abbreviations in the vet tech field.
These are just a few of the most common terms that veterinary technicians use on a daily basis. By using this terminology correctly and understanding what a condition, medicine, or procedure is, everyone is able to fulfill their roles, and you will be better equipped to communicate with your colleagues while providing the best possible care for the animals.
Putting myself through the Medical Assistant program at Ross has been the best investment I've made toward my future because I have a stable lifetime career that I truly enjoy. I will always remember the support and encouragement that I was given by the staff and my instructors. Thank you, Ross, for being around to help me invest in my future.
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I thank Ross for everything that they have done, from the first time I stepped foot on their campus. I was so afraid, but not so much of starting school, but afraid of failure. That was my biggest fear until talking with one of the school's administrators. She made me feel so comfortable in becoming a student at Ross. Once I started and met my teachers it became so easy. They took time out to help me when I didn't understand things, which made it that much easier. Once I got to my externship I was so excited yet afraid at the same time. However, where they sent me for my externship is where I wanted to go and upon completion, I am very proud to say that I got hired and I am still working there to this day! Ross helped me with my career so much that I enrolled in the online school for Ross and received my associates degree. It was hard being a full-time mom, employee, and student, but I did it and so can you, thanks to Ross and its amazing team!
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