It s hard to believe there would be a single practice that wants to intentionally harm their staff. When a staff member is ill or injured, the entire team works harder and is less productive. Not to mention the direct expenses to the practice. Of course, it s no fun for the injured person either. Animal bites and injuries can be very painful and severely disfiguring.
Zoonotic diseases are sometimes just uncomfortable but sometimes can be life-threatening.
It s for all these reasons we must take the time to make sure our staff understands the safety measures that must be taken to ensure everyone is protected while getting the job done. Sometimes it s the most simple acts that get us into trouble and in the veterinary profession, there s no simpler act than restraint and treatment of a patient. First of all, remember that policies, procedures and protective equipment are not substitutes for proper training. Every staff member must be trained to properly restrain and capture any species of animals they are expected to handle. Training or evaluation of workers should occur as early in employment as possible.