Patient Care - Recover Support in Surgery

Role Purpose

To provide a safe, calm, and warm environment for cats and dogs as they emerge from anesthesia. This role is critical in the 30–60 minutes immediately following surgery, ensuring that patients wake up smoothly, stay warm, and are monitored for any signs of distress before returning to their kennels.

Key Responsibilities

• Anesthesia Monitoring: Watch for regular breathing patterns and monitor gum color (capillary refill time) as directed by medical staff.

• Temperature Regulation: Use warming blankets, heat discs, or "snuggle safes" to prevent hypothermia, which is common after surgery.

• Extubation Support: Alert technicians when a patient begins to swallow so the breathing tube (endotracheal tube) can be safely removed.

• Post-Op Comfort: Gently "tuck in" recovering pets, ensuring they are positioned correctly to keep their airways clear.

• Sanitation: Clean and prep recovery bays/crates between patients to maintain a sterile environment.

• Alert System: Immediately notify the veterinary team of any abnormalities, such as shivering, vocalization, or slow wake-up times.