As a veterinary technician, having the right tools can make all the difference in providing top-notch care to your animal patients. From administering medications to dressing wounds, having the right tools can improve efficiency, accuracy, and overall patient comfort. Here are the top six must-have tools for any veterinary technician.
- Nursing Pouch – A well-designed nursing pouch is an indispensable tool for carrying medications, syringes, and other supplies needed for patient care. These pouches typically feature multiple compartments and loops for organizing supplies and can be easily attached to a belt for quick access. Here is a link to one that can keep you organized (and hold your phone too!): https://amzn.to/3I2yFti
- Bandage Scissors – Bandage scissors are specially designed to cut through bandages and other materials without damaging the underlying skin. They have a blunt tip to prevent injury and a curved blade to make cutting bandages easier. If you have ever worked in specialty or emergency veterinary medicine then you know you need different sizes for different species of patient. Here is a great set, that has you covered at a reasonable price: https://amzn.to/3RAtwfg
- Stethoscope Holder – A stethoscope holder is a must-have for any veterinary technician, keeping your stethoscope conveniently located and within reach at all times. This tool is especially helpful during exams and procedures, allowing you to focus on the patient without having to search for your stethoscope – or worse have it swing and unintentionally bonk the patient. This will clip right on to your nursing pouch: https://amzn.to/40BwUKM
- Hemostats – Hemostats are a type of forceps used to clamp and control bleeding. They have a locking mechanism that allows for precise control and can be used for a variety of procedures, including wound dressing and suturing. They are also incredibly handy in loosening those IV ports. This writer recommends one curved and one straight for your pouch. https://amzn.to/3DHqqQY
- Sharpie Pen (Extra Fine Point) – A Sharpie pen with an extra fine point is a crucial tool for labeling IV catheters, medications and supplies. The fine tip allows for precise labeling and its waterproof ink ensures that the label will not smudge or fade. These are the BEST: https://amzn.to/3Y6tqOM
- Suture Scissors: These are a must. Having a pair that are curved and one that are straight is intensely helpful with all the species we see in veterinary medicine. This set is a good value: https://amzn.to/40AxwAw
In conclusion, these six tools are essential for any veterinary technician. By having these tools readily available, you can provide the best possible care for your animal patients and improve your overall efficiency and accuracy. These tools will help to ensure that you have minimal interruptions when you are caring for patients.