Veterinary technicians struggle to succeed professionally, physically and psychologically. According to surveys, they’re leaving in droves, and we know why. Increased burnout, coupled with low wages and a lack of appreciation, are at the top of the list. Yet many technicians still show up to work every day, ready to take on the challenges of the practice and the profession they love.
Industry leaders are working to address the issues, but the process is slow, and we don’t have time to wait. If we can reverse the trend of new technicians burning out within five to seven years, we might extend their shrinking shelf life.
Technicians can do a few things to improve their situation and maintain career longevity. Here are a few trouble spots and sensible solutions.
Professional Development
A critical contributor to job satisfaction, and one that supports longevity in any role, is professional development. Veterinary technicians who want to advance within a practice and the profession should go beyond their initial education and credentialing requirements. It isn’t enough to settle for entry-level basics anymore.
Therefore, enhance your skills and abilities by broadening your knowledge. Chances for continued learning and advancement are abundant. Whether you’re obtaining your veterinary technician specialist (VTS) credential, learning new hands-on skills or taking on leadership duties, take advantage of every opportunity. Follow your passion and seek ways to achieve your professional goals. Most veterinary practices support their teams’ continuing education and provide financial support to cover the cost of attending conferences and enrolling in classes. Work with your practice leaders to capitalize on every available resource.
In addition, network with technicians locally and nationally. Technician associations are an excellent venue for meeting like-minded professionals and keeping abreast of changes. Get involved in your community. For example, look for animal-related activities at which you can share your skills and knowledge.
A lack of recognition and appreciation are significant contributors to burnout. Give your practice a reason to acknowledge your accomplishments and show you the gratitude you deserve.
The more you know, the more you grow within the profession and increase your earning potential.
Physical Demands
Working in an animal hospital takes a toll on our bodies, and veterinary technicians are at high risk. Only the rare technicians make it through their working years without a serious injury of some sort. According to AVMA PLIT, the most common injuries in a veterinary practice involve animal attacks, mostly by dogs and cats. Eliminating the risk is impossible, but you can take these steps to reduce the incidence of animal-caused injuries, regardless of the species:
- Get comprehensive training in animal handling.
- Recognize patient behavior that can lead to a risky situation.
- Learn and adopt Fear Free and low-stress handling techniques.
- Use personal protective equipment such as gloves and animal devices like muzzles, nets and restraint boxes when needed.
- Sedate patients when appropriate.
Strains and sprains are the second most common injuries for technicians and assistants after animal attacks. Twisting, turning, squatting, bending, lifting, reaching and repetitive-motion tasks are the norm. That is a typical day for most technicians. We’re in constant motion.
It’s time to be proactive with our physical health rather than reactive. Pay attention to ergonomics. The goal is to reduce stress and eliminate injuries and disorders associated with soft tissue, muscles, awkward postures and repeated tasks that can lead to tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
What comfort solutions and safety protocols can you introduce into your practice to reduce the risk of injury? Consider these policies:
- Always use a two-person lift with animals over 40 pounds.
- Use a cart to carry heavy items.
- Use adjustable tables and chairs to minimize bending over.
- Use floor pads when you must stand for long periods.
- Rotate workers when performing tasks with a higher incidence of repetitive motion. Dental procedures fall into this category.
- Wear shoes that provide maximum support and comfort.
If you’re injured on the job, seek medical care. A seemingly minor cat bite can become a serious health concern if not treated properly. Also, take time to heal after an injury. We all want to return to work as soon as possible, but let your body rest and heal rather than go back too soon and risk further injury.
Personal Care
Self-care is the next area of focus. It’s not enough to concentrate on your professional development and remain injury-free at work if you’re also not taking care of your needs. You need balance in your life. At the core of an effective work-life balance are two key components: daily achievement and enjoyment. They sound so simple, but you can’t have one without the other.
Time-management skills are crucial in maintaining balance. Much of the stress we feel results from disorganization and procrastination. Therefore, set your priorities and make a reasonable to-do list. Then enjoy the satisfaction of achievement and crossing things off the list.
Also, remember to enjoy the things and people surrounding you. Make time for yourself, and distance yourself from what causes you the most stress. Take breaks during the day, and use your vacation time every year. Getting away to recharge is vital.
Finally, take control of your schedule. Don’t fill every minute of your time. Delegation and asking for help are hard to do at work and home, but you should share the workload when you feel overwhelmed on the job or with family responsibilities.
You can’t do it all. The key word is “balance,” and you need what works best for you. If you don’t control the chaos in your life, it will control you, causing burnout.
The better you feel professionally, physically and personally, the more likely you’ll remain engaged and stay in the veterinary profession for many years.
ME, MYSELF AND I
The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America surveyed its members in 2022. Asked about the time they spent on self-care, 37% of the respondents replied, “None.” Only 21% graded their self-care as sufficient.