Responsibilities

Veterinary nurses and technicians play an indispensable role in supporting veterinarians, ensuring the smooth operation of clinics and providing essential care. However, veterinary nurses and technicians, regardless of their qualifications, do not have specific exemptions under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936.

For this reason, veterinary nurses and technicians:

  • are not regulated by the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Queensland
  • may not perform any acts of veterinary science
  • may not diagnose or treat an animal without a veterinarian's instructions.

After a veterinarian has examined an animal, they can instruct a nurse or technician (where qualified) to do activities such as:

Qualifications

While veterinary nurses and technicians are not regulated in Queensland, they must hold recognised qualifications to handle drugs. These are outlined in the Medicines and Poisons (Medicines) Regulation 2021 — (schedule 11).

Medication administration by injection

Qualified veterinary nurses who are authorised under the Medicines and Poisons (Medicines) Regulation 2021 — (schedule 11) can administer follow-up injections prescribed by a veterinarian after an initial consultation. The initial consultation should specify the number of repeats and intervals, allowing for proper review.

Any concerns, ineffectiveness, illness or adverse reactions mandate a full examination by a veterinarian.

There are also restrictions about how qualified nurses can access or administer S4 and S8 medications.

Introduction of anaesthetic is identified as an act of veterinary science and can only be administered by a registered veterinarian.

Monitoring and altering the administration of anaesthetic agents (gaseous or parenteral) can be done by a qualified veterinary nurse or veterinary technician under the direct supervision of a veterinarian, after the animal has been induced.

Fluid administration and emergency protocols

Subcutaneous and intravenous fluids, though not scheduled products, are considered a therapeutic treatment. The administration must follow the veterinarian's instructions post-examination, and policies and procedures should be in place to clarify roles and responsibilities, including responding to emergency situations.

Last updated: 05 Apr 2024