AGV 161 - Animal Nursing I

1. Perform essential diagnostic and nursing procedures for small animals.
2. Understand pathophysiology, treatment, and nursing care of common diseases.
3. Demonstrate appropriate care techniques for neonates, geriatrics, and end-of-life patients.
4. Apply the principles of fluid therapy, transfusion medicine, and toxicologic intervention.
5. Communicate effectively with clients and the veterinary team in medical and emotional contexts.

Unit Outcomes:

Unit 1: Diagnostic Sampling and Laboratory Procedures

Objectives:

1. Describe the indications and techniques for venipuncture, urine collection, and fecal sampling.
2. Demonstrate safe and accurate restraint for diagnostic procedures.
3. Properly label, handle, and prepare samples for laboratory analysis.
4. Understand and perform common in-house tests (e.g., PCV/TP, fecal flotation, urinalysis).
5. Recognize sample artifacts and sources of error.

Unit 2: Small Animal Medical Nursing

Objectives:

1. Perform and document routine patient assessments (TPR, pain scores, physical exams).
2. Understand implementation of nursing care plans for patients with medical conditions.
3. Administer medications via common routes (oral, SQ, IM, IV).
4. Monitor patient responses and recognize changes requiring intervention.
5. Communicate patient status and treatments effectively within the veterinary team.

Unit 3: Common Diseases of Dogs and Cats

Objectives:

1. Identify clinical signs, diagnostics, and technician roles in common small animal diseases.
2. Distinguish between viral, bacterial, parasitic, and systemic conditions.
3. Describe supportive care protocols for diseases such as parvovirus, diabetes, and renal failure.
4. Understand disease transmission, prevention, and home care.
5. Recognize disease-related emergencies.

Unit 4: Neonatal Care

Objectives:

1. Explain the normal development of puppies and kittens.
2. Understand proper husbandry and feeding techniques for neonates.
3. Recognize signs of illness and failure to thrive in neonates.
4. Understand supportive care for orphaned or ill neonatal patients.

Unit 5: Geriatric Care and Chronic Conditions

Objectives:

1. Identify physical and behavioral changes associated with aging in pets.
2. Implement nursing strategies for chronic conditions (arthritis, cognitive dysfunction, etc.).
3. Understand polypharmacy and nutritional needs in geriatrics.
4. Be able to counsel owners on home modifications and monitoring for aging pets.
5. Use pain scoring and quality-of-life assessments in geriatric patients.

Unit 6: Rehabilitation and Alternative Therapies

Objectives:

1. Define rehabilitation, physical therapy, and alternative modalities in veterinary care.
2. Describe therapeutic options such as cold laser, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy.
3. Understand monitoring and documentation of patient response to rehab interventions.
4. Be able to collaborate with veterinarians to implement care plans for mobility-impaired patients.
5. Communicate goals and expectations of rehab treatment.

Unit 7: Fluid Therapy and Transfusion Medicine

Objectives:

1. Explain the principles of fluid balance and types of fluid therapy.
2. Calculate fluid rates, maintenance requirements, and monitor fluid status.
3. Identify types of transfusion products and indications for use.
4. Perform blood collection, crossmatching, and transfusion monitoring.
5. Recognize signs of fluid overload and transfusion reactions.

Unit 8: Veterinary Toxicology

Objectives:

1.  Recognize signs and sources of common toxic exposures in small animals.
2. Describe technician roles in decontamination and sample submission.
3. Explain supportive care measures for toxicosis.
4. Identify when to use emetics, activated charcoal, and IV fluids.
5. Educate owners on household toxins and poison prevention.

Unit 9: Veterinary Dentistry

Objectives:

1. Identify normal and abnormal oral anatomy and pathology in dogs and cats.
2. Perform a dental chart and understand the modified Triadan system.
3. Demonstrate proper use of dental instruments for scaling and polishing.
4. Assist in dental radiography and client education.
5. Recognize signs of oral pain and infection.

Unit 10: Euthanasia, Grief, and Client Support

Objectives:

1. Explain the euthanasia process and technician responsibilities during the procedure.
2. Provide emotional support to clients before, during, and after euthanasia.
3. Discuss professional communication strategies regarding end-of-life decisions.
4. Recognize signs of compassion fatigue and self-care strategies for veterinary staff.
5. Describe aftercare options (burial, cremation, memorials) and documentation.