ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Veterinary Support
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Assisting Veterinary Surgeons in Monitoring Anaesthetised and Sedated Companion Animals is a specialised qualification designed for individuals seeking to work in veterinary support roles. This course equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to safely assist veterinary professionals in monitoring the health and wellbeing of animals under sedation or anaesthesia, ensuring their safety throughout surgical and diagnostic procedures.
Learners gain an understanding of vital signs, monitoring equipment, anaesthesia protocols, and the procedures needed to support veterinary surgeons during treatment. The course also covers animal handling, infection control, ethical considerations, and emergency response techniques to ensure the welfare of companion animals.
This qualification is ideal for aspiring veterinary assistants, animal care staff, and those already working in veterinary clinics, hospitals, or animal care facilities who wish to expand their skills and professional competence. On completion, learners gain a recognised Level 2 certificate that enhances employability, supports career progression in veterinary support, and ensures high standards of care when assisting anaesthetised or sedated animals in clinical settings.
Key Information
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Assisting Veterinary Surgeons in Monitoring Anaesthetised and Sedated Companion Animals is a practical 10-day training programme designed to provide learners with the knowledge and skills required to support veterinary professionals during anaesthesia procedures. The course comprises three focused units, combining theoretical understanding with hands-on experience to ensure safe and effective monitoring of animals under sedation.
Key Learning Areas
Learners study the use of monitoring equipment, understanding vital signs, and recognising early warning signs during procedures. The programme also emphasises safe animal handling, hygiene practices, and infection control within veterinary environments.
Professional Practices and Ethics
The course includes guidance on professional boundaries, ethical care standards, emergency protocols, and effective communication with veterinary teams to ensure the safety and welfare of animals during clinical procedures.
Practical Application
This qualification equips learners with the confidence and skills to contribute effectively in veterinary clinics, hospitals, and animal care facilities. It prepares individuals for roles where they can support veterinary surgeons while maintaining high standards of animal care and clinical safety.
Unit Structure
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Assisting Veterinary Surgeons in Monitoring Anaesthetised and Sedated Companion Animals, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Principles of Anaesthesia and Sedation in Companion Animals
- Monitoring Techniques and Animal Safety During Procedures
- Professional Practice, Ethics, and Communication in Veterinary Support
Recommended For
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Assisting Veterinary Surgeons in Monitoring Anaesthetised and Sedated Companion Animals is designed for individuals who want to work in veterinary support roles and gain practical skills in monitoring animals under sedation or anaesthesia. It is ideal for:
- Aspiring veterinary assistants and technicians seeking formal training in clinical support
- Animal care staff working in veterinary clinics, hospitals, or animal care facilities
- Individuals looking to enhance their knowledge of anaesthesia monitoring and animal welfare during clinical procedures
- Students or professionals planning a career in veterinary nursing, surgery support, or companion animal care
- Anyone seeking to improve employability and professional competence in the veterinary support and animal care industry
This course is suitable for learners with a basic understanding of animal care who want to build confidence and skills in assisting veterinary surgeons safely and effectively while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and clinical practice.
What You’ll Be Able to Do
Principles of Anaesthesia and Sedation in Companion Animals
- Understand the basic principles of anaesthesia and sedation for dogs, cats, and other companion animals.
- Learn the different types of anaesthetic and sedative agents used in veterinary practice.
- Recognize the physiological effects of anaesthesia and sedation on various animal species.
- Understand pre-operative preparation, including animal assessment and risk factors.
- Learn the importance of accurate dosage calculation and administration under supervision.
- Recognize signs of adverse reactions or complications during anaesthesia or sedation.
- Gain knowledge of recovery processes and post-procedure monitoring requirements.
- Develop confidence in assisting veterinary professionals during anaesthetic and sedative procedures.
Monitoring Techniques and Animal Safety During Procedures
- Learn to monitor vital signs including heart rate, respiration, and body temperature during procedures.
- Understand the use of monitoring equipment and interpretation of readings.
- Recognize early warning signs of distress or complications in anaesthetised animals.
- Apply safe handling and restraint techniques during monitoring.
- Develop the ability to assist with emergency procedures under supervision.
- Understand the importance of maintaining a sterile and safe environment during procedures.
- Learn to document observations accurately and report changes promptly to veterinary staff.
- Gain practical skills to support animal safety and welfare during surgical and diagnostic procedures.
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Communication in Veterinary Support
- Develop effective communication skills with veterinary surgeons, nurses, and clients.
- Understand ethical principles and responsibilities when working with anaesthetised or sedated animals.
- Learn to maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection regulations.
- Develop professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail in a veterinary environment.
- Understand legal and regulatory requirements related to veterinary support and animal care.
- Learn to work collaboratively within a veterinary team to ensure smooth operation and patient safety.
- Recognize the importance of continuous professional development and reflective practice.
- Gain confidence in applying professional standards and ethical considerations to everyday veterinary support tasks.
