VETERINARY ASSISTING, 51.0808.00 UPDATED 11/2020
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- Early Childhood Education (2024)
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- AgriScience
- Automotive Collision Repair
- Automotive Technologies
- Business Management
- Business Management
- Construction Technologies
- CTE - Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Culinary Arts
- Culinary Arts (2025)
- Digital Communication
- Digital Photography (2020)
- Early Childhood Education (2016)
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- Emergency Medical Services
- Engineering Technical Standards
- Fashion Design and Merchandising
- Film & TV Production
- Graphic Design
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- Marketing
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- Network Security
- Nursing Services
- Professional Skill Standards
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- Software and App Design 11.0202.00 (2024)
- Stagecraft
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- ACCOUNTING 52.0301.00
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- LABORATORY ASSISTING, 51.0802.00
- LAW AND PUBLIC SAFETY, 43.0100.00
- MEDICAL ASSISTING SERVICES 51.0800.60
- Medical Assisting Services 51.0801.00 (2022/23)
- MEDICAL RECORDS TECHNOLOGIES 51.0707.00
- MENTAL AND SOCIAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN 51.1500.00
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PERFORM OFFICE FUNCTIONSVA1.0
- 1.1
Demonstrate appointment scheduling using paper and electronic methods (i.e., triage, type of appointment, office, doctor, and hospital schedules, etc.)VA1.1
- 1.2
Prepare appropriate forms and certificates for signature (e.g., rabies, sterilization, and health)VA1.2
- 1.3
Admit a patient (i.e., greet client, determine procedure, provide cost or estimate, use laymen or medical terminology as appropriate, etc.)VA1.3
- 1.4
Discharge a patient (i.e., include services performed, diagnosis, follow up of doctor’s orders and future appointments, explain medications, clarify questions, assist to vehicle if necessary, etc.)VA1.4
- 1.5
File, retrieve, and maintain medical records in accordance with AZ Veterinary Medical Examining Board, Administrative Rules Article 5. Standards of Practice R3-11-502 Standards of Practice L.VA1.5
- 1.6
Use practice management software to maintain electronic health records for accuracy and securityVA1.6
- 1.7
Follow office procedures for invoicing, billing, payment on account, and processing travel sheetsVA1.7
- 1.8
Answer, prioritize, and accurately document phone callsVA1.8
- 1.9
Request records and information from other veterinary facilitiesVA1.9
- 1.10
Identify and describe the function of office equipment (i.e., fax, copier, scanner, and credit card machine)VA1.10
APPLY RECORDKEEPING SKILLSVA2.0
- 2.1
Identify commonly used root words, prefixes, and suffixes for charting purposesVA2.1
- 2.2
Define medical terms based on their prefixes, roots, and/or suffixes (i.e., ovariohysterectomy: ovario-, - hyster-, -ectomy, etc.)VA2.2
- 2.3
Use common medical terminology and abbreviationsVA2.3
- 2.4
Identify components of the medical record (i.e., demographic information, lab and image results, history, progress notes, etc.)VA2.4
- 2.5
Record an accurate history of the patient, and report chief complaintsVA2.5
- 2.6
Demonstrate a progress note using the format of SOAP (subjective, objective, assessment, and plan)VA2.6
- 2.7
Ensure completeness of the medical recordVA2.7
- 2.8
Maintain integrity and security of the medical recordVA2.8
- 2.9
Retrieve and interpret medical recordsVA2.9
DEMONSTRATE EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AND CLIENT RELATIONSVA3.0
- 3.1
Demonstrate appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication skills matching the tone of the room/situationVA3.1
- 3.2
Demonstrate appropriate written and electronic communication matching technology to contentVA3.2
- 3.3
Identify and show respect for cultural differences (i.e., religion, euthanasia practices, end-of-life procedures, etc.)VA3.3
- 3.4
Describe the steps and stages of the grief processVA3.4
- 3.5
Translate medical terminology into client-friendly languageVA3.5
- 3.6
Explain the value of recommended proceduresVA3.6
- 3.7
Explain release of medical record requirements in accordance with AZ Veterinary Medical Examining Board, Administrative Rules. Article 5 Standards of Practice R3-11-501. Ethical Standards 8.VA3.7
APPLY LEGAL, ETHICAL, AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICESVA4.0
- 4.1
Describe the roles and responsibilities of each member of the veterinary health team in the delivery of excellent careVA4.1
- 4.2
Distinguish between ethical and unethical conduct in a veterinary practice in accordance with R3-11-501. 1-5, and 9.; ARS 32-2232VA4.2
- 4.3
Explain the human-animal bond and its implications for veterinary practiceVA4.3
- 4.4
Demonstrate professionalism with respect to client decisionsVA4.4
- 4.5
Demonstrate professional appearance and language in the workplaceVA4.5
- 4.6
Demonstrate use of electronic communication in the workplace (e.g., cell phone, text messaging, social networking, and digital photography)VA4.6
- 4.7
Explain confidentiality issues, regulations, and requirements related to veterinary medicineVA4.7
- 4.8
Follow local, state, and federal laws and regulations as they apply to veterinary assistantsVA4.8
- 4.9
Defend the importance of and explain legal implications of the veterinary-client-patient relationship in accordance with AZ Veterinary Medical Examining Board definition of VCPR. ARS 32-2201. 25. a-cVA4.9
APPLY SANITATION AND SAFETY MEASURESVA5.0
- 5.1
Explain basic sanitation and disinfection techniques in accordance with AZ Veterinary Medical Examining Board, Administrative Rules R3-11-101. 26.VA5.1
- 5.2
Inventory commonly used products and supplies for expiration dates, quantity, and availabilityVA5.2
- 5.3
Restock supplies (i.e., accepting supplies, shelving supplies, rotating stock, want/need list, etc.)VA5.3
- 5.4
Identify communicable and zoonotic diseases (e.g., germs from direct or indirect contact with animals, and Vector-Borne or foodborne transmission)VA5.4
- 5.5
Comply with hazardous labeling requirements according to OSHAVA5.5
- 5.6
Demonstrate proper hand hygiene according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control)VA5.6
- 5.7
Demonstrate proper donning, removal, and discarding of personal protective equipment (PPE) according to standard procedure (e.g., gloves, gowns, masks, goggles, shoe covers, bonnets, and face shields)VA5.7
- 5.8
Explain isolation protocols and procedures (i.e., exam room, treatment area, diagnostic testing, etc.)VA5.8
- 5.9
Explain procedures for cleaning chemical and biological spillsVA5.9
- 5.10
Explain the content, purpose, and location of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)VA5.10
- 5.11
Use fire and chemical safety protocols (e.g., SDS, and the use of fire extinguishers)VA5.11
- 5.12
Describe evacuation plans used by various facilitiesVA5.12
- 5.13
Follow the procedure for reporting unsafe conditions for self and others (e.g., electrical hazards, spillages, puddles on floor, and fractious patients)VA5.13
- 5.14
Demonstrate proper body mechanics and lifting techniquesVA5.14
- 5.15
Recognize radiation signageVA5.15
- 5.16
Store, safely handle, and dispose of biological and therapeutic agents and sharps, pesticides, and hazardous waste and material according to OSHAVA5.16
- 5.17
Explain human bloodborne pathogens protocolsVA5.17
- 5.18
Describe bite case protocol and procedures for staff and patient5.18
APPLY PRINCIPLES OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGYVA6.0
- 6.1
Recognize DEA standards involving all controlled and non-controlled substances in accordance with Article 7. 32-2281 Dispensing of drugs and devices; Article 8. Drug Dispensing R3-11-801 thru R3-11-807; R3-11-502 K. Controlled drug log; and 32-1901 Controlled/non-controlledVA6.1
- 6.2
Compare and contrast types and groups of drugs using proper terminologyVA6.2
- 6.3
Differentiate between prescription drugs from over-the-counter drugsVA6.3
- 6.4
Demonstrate prescription labeling requirements including expiration datesVA6.4
- 6.5
Reconstitute vaccines and/or medications according to protocolVA6.5
- 6.6
Describe possible routes of drug and/or vaccine administration (i.e., intranasal, intramuscular, oral, topical, etc.)VA6.6
- 6.7
Prepare a prescription based on the doctor’s ordersVA6.7
- 6.8
Communicate prescription instructionsVA6.8
APPLY ANIMAL BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT AND RESTRAINT TECHNIQUESVA7.0
- 7.1
Demonstrate kenneling protocols (i.e., placing and removing small animals from upper and lower cages/kennels, safety, comfort, husbandry, aggression, etc.)VA7.1
- 7.2
Determine appropriate restraint techniques based on behavioral assessment, size, weight, and compromised status (table or floor)VA7.2
- 7.3
Apply appropriate safety equipment (e.g., safety muzzle, Elizabethan collar, and resistant pole)VA7.3
- 7.4
Demonstrate canine restraint positions (e.g., standing, sitting, lateral, sternal, and dorsal)VA7.4
- 7.5
Demonstrate feline handling and restraint techniquesVA7.5
- 7.6
Restrain equine (e.g., halter, tie, and lead horses)VA7.6
- 7.7
Recognize dog breeds, cat breeds, and common equine breeds (i.e., American Kennel Club (AKC), Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), etc.)VA7.7
- 7.8
Identify the gender of small animal species, particularly felinesVA7.8
- 7.9
Differentiate between normal and abnormal animal behavior (i.e., irritability, fear, agnostic aggression, etc.)VA7.9
- 7.10
Assist in the collection of blood samples by providing appropriate restraintVA7.10
PERFORM PATIENT CAREVA8.0
- 8.1
Determine and record temperature, pulse, respiration, mucous membrane color, capillary refill time (CRT), body condition score, and weight of patients (e.g., convert lbs. to kg and kg to lbs.)VA8.1
- 8.2
Express anal glands using the external methodVA8.2
- 8.3
Perform exam room grooming (e.g., trimming nails, cleaning external ear canal, sanitary trimming, and therapeutic bathing)VA8.3
- 8.4
Explain small animal nutritional requirements, pet food labeling standards, dry matter basis calculations, and the differences between pet food productsVA8.4
- 8.5
Apply medication using the eye or ear routeVA8.5
- 8.6
Perform routine recordkeeping and observation of hospitalized patients (e.g., input and output when cleaning and feeding)VA8.6
- 8.7
Prepare supplies needed for fluid therapyVA8.7
- 8.8
Administer oral medications, liquid and pills, for canines and felinesVA8.8
- 8.9
Perform IV catheter removalVA8.9
- 8.10
Perform pressure bandage application and removalVA8.10
- 8.11
Compare and contrast bandage types and materials used for each (e.g., cast padding, stretch gauze, Telfa™ pad, self-adherent bandage wrap, medical tape, and elastic tape)VA8.11
- 8.12
Prepare food and prescription diets according to special dietary needsVA8.12
- 8.13
Provide care and maintenance of medical equipment and supplies (e.g., IV drip counter, water blanket, and bedding)VA8.13
- 8.14
Explain basic husbandry for birds, rabbits, pocket pets, reptiles, and other exoticsVA8.14
- 8.15
Recognize abnormal patient health status (i.e., seizure, shock, ataxia, dyspnea, etc.)VA8.15
- 8.16
Recognize and respond appropriately to common veterinary medical emergencies by notifying the appropriate hospital personnelVA8.16
- 8.17
Explain the process of euthanasia and postmortem care in accordance with ARS Article 3. 32-2240.01 Burial in landfill; Article 8. 32-2291-32-2296 Licensure of Animal Crematories; in accordance with Arizona Veterinary Medical Examining Board Administrative Rules and Procedures Article 10. R3-11-1001 thru 1010 Animal Crematory Minimum Standards, and Standards of Practice, F. R311-502VA8.17
- 8.18
Demonstrate appropriate procedure for disposal of deceased animals in accordance with Article 8. 32-2291 Disposal of deceased animals; Minimum standards for animal crematories Rules R3-11-1001 thru 1010, and R3-11-701, 5. Defining adequate refrigeration for deceasedVA8.18
ASSIST WITH SURGICAL PREPARATION AND PROCEDURESVA9.0
- 9.1
Prepare surgical equipment and supplies based on surgical procedure and veterinarian preferencesVA9.1
- 9.2
Sterilize instruments and sanitize suppliesVA9.2
- 9.3
Identify different sterilization techniques (i.e., steam, dry heat, gas, cold sterile, etc.)VA9.3
- 9.4
Operate and maintain autoclavesVA9.4
- 9.5
Identify common surgical instrumentsVA9.5
- 9.6
Identify common suture materials, types, and sizesVA9.6
- 9.7
Assist the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician with the preparation of patients using aseptic techniquesVA9.7
- 9.8
Assist in positioning surgical patientsVA9.8
- 9.9
Aid the veterinarian and/or veterinary technician with physical monitoring of recovering surgical patientsVA9.9
- 9.10
Maintain the Surgical Log in accordance with R3-11-502 Standards of Practice H. 1 thru 5 Anesthesia Log (separate from controlled drug log)VA9.10
- 9.11
Maintain proper operating room conduct and asepsis (e.g., PPE, sanitation, movement, and care)VA9.11
- 9.12
Perform post-surgical cleanup using hazardous waste proceduresVA9.12
- 9.13
Fold and wrap surgical gowns, drapes, and packsVA9.13
ASSIST WITH LABORATORY PROCEDURES AND PREPARE SPECIMENSVA10.0
- 10.1
Collect voided urine and fecal samplesVA10.1
- 10.2
Determine physical properties of urine including color and clarityVA10.2
- 10.3
Prepare supplies for blood drawVA10.3
- 10.4
Compare and contrast common blood tubes used in veterinary medicineVA10.4
- 10.5
Collect voided fecal samples for examinationVA10.5
- 10.6
Prepare fecal flotation solutions and set up fecal flotations and direct smearsVA10.6
- 10.7
Describe necropsy proceduresVA10.7
- 10.8
Recognize clinical signs of suspected rabies cases and notify correct personnelVA10.8
- 10.9
Explain procedures for handling rabies samples safely in accordance with Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control (Arizona Manual for Rabies Control and Bite Management azdhs.gov. Federal— cdc.gov)VA10.9
- 10.10
Identify external parasites (e.g., mites, lice, fleas, and ticks)VA10.10
- 10.11
Assist in the preparation of various specimen staining techniquesVA10.11
- 10.12
Compare and contrast preparation procedures of in-house lab vs reference lab sample submissionVA10.12
- 10.13
Confirm that laboratory results are accurately recordedVA10.13
- 10.14
Maintain Laboratory LogVA10.14
REVIEW THE BODY SYSTEMSVA11.0
- 11.1
Describe the function and structure of the Integumentary SystemVA11.1
- 11.2
Describe the function and structure of the Musculoskeletal SystemVA11.2
- 11.3
Describe the function and structure of the Circulatory SystemVA11.3
- 11.4
Describe the function and structure of the Respiratory SystemVA11.4
- 11.5
Describe the function and structure of the Gastrointestinal SystemVA11.5
- 11.6
Describe the function and structure of the Urinary SystemVA11.6
- 11.7
Describe the function and structure of the Nervous SystemVA11.7
- 11.8
Describe the function and structure of the Endocrine SystemVA11.8
- 11.9
Describe the function and structure of the Reproductive SystemVA11.9
- 11.10
Describe the function and structure of the Sensory SystemVA11.10
- 11.11
Describe the function and structure of the Immune SystemVA11.11
DESCRIBE IMAGING TECHNIQUES AND SAFETY PRACTICESVA12.0
- 12.1
Describe procedures to assist in the completion of diagnostic radiographs and ultrasound including preparation, restraint, and positioning of patientsVA12.1
- 12.2
Explain quality control procedures related to radiation protection (i.e., clothing, dosimetry badges, etc.) in accordance with Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency (ARRA) Article 4. Standards for Protection against Ionizing Radiation R12-1-401 thru 409VA12.2
- 12.3
Label, file, and store film and radiographsVA12.3
- 12.4
Demonstrate proper care of radiography equipmentVA12.4
- 12.5
Demonstrate procedures for care and maintenance of film cassettes and screensVA12.5
- 12.6
Explain safety precautions for handling processing chemicalsVA12.6
- 12.7
Differentiate among manual, automatic, and digital radiographic processingVA12.7
- 12.8
Maintain X-ray Log in accordance with X-ray log, AZ Vet Med Examining Board Administrative Rules R3-11-502, M.VA12.8
Frequently asked questions
- What grade levels do these standards cover?
- VOCATIONALTRAINING, Grade 12, and Grade 11
- Where can I read the official document?
- ARIZONA CTE CAREER PREPARATION STANDARDS & MEASUREMENT CRITERIA
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