Veterinary Nurse/Veterinary Technician, Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation, Small Animal Clinical Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine

The College of Veterinary Medicine invites applicants to apply for the position of Veterinary Nurse, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, located within the Small Animal Sciences department. The primary purpose of this position is to provide entry-level patient care in the Small Animal Rehabilitation service by making patient assessments, preparing patients for exams or treatments, performing diagnostic tests and analyzing results, and recording patients' medical histories and symptoms, including observations with oversight from the primary veterinarian or veterinary nurse supervisor. Position administers medicine and treatments, establishes plan of care, and operates medical equipment as directed. Incumbent serves as a resource of information and guidance. Position supports teaching efforts by instructing students, interns, and residents. Position demonstrates professionalism and input on management of patient care.

Depending on experience and qualifications of successful candidate, individual will be hired in as a Veterinary Nurse 1, Veterinary Nurse 2, Senior Veterinary Nurse 1, or Senior Veterinary Nurse 2.

Typical Responsibilities:

• Provides entry-level patient care by performing treatments and procedures under supervision and as prescribed by the Rehabilitation Clinician. Implements physical rehabilitation protocols for orthopedic and neurological post-operative patients. Educates owners regarding at-home exercises. Implements fitness and weight loss protocols for performance and companion animals as directed by supervisor or overseeing clinician. Collects samples and orders diagnostic tests, sedates and monitors patient, as directed. Provides input on management of patient care and confers with owner. Regularly communicates with supervising Clinician and overseeing veterinary nurse supervisor. Collaborates with others to ensure quality patient care is received. Enters charges on patient accounts.
• Supports teaching efforts by instructing students. Takes CCRP and CCFT or other rehabilitation and physical therapy courses as directed. Attend rounds and classes to build knowledge.
• Manages supplies, equipment, and inventory. Works with others in the service to provide maintenance of rehabilitation equipment (Pool water quality, Underwater Treadmill, Balance Boards and Physiorolls, Therapy Bands, Therapeutic Exercise Equipment).
• On-call and other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed:

• Entry-level knowledge of veterinary medical concepts
• Knowledge of animal behavior and animal husbandry
• Knowledge of disinfection
• Knowledge of and ability to perform resuscitation
• Ability to perform diagnostic procedures
• Ability to adhere to hospital safety procedures
• Ability to work in a high stress environment
• Ability to calculate dosages and to administer drugs
• Ability to obtain patient stats
• Ability to conduct oneself if a professional manner
• Animal handling skills
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Time management skills

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a graduate of an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)- accredited program in Veterinary Technology with an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. Upcoming graduates will be considered with the understanding that degree must be obtained prior to hire date
• Must obtain a license to practice in Tennessee within first year of employment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

The Veterinary Medical Center is operational 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, and 365 days per year. Occasional weekend, evening, or holiday work may be required of this position.