UF veterinary anesthesia technician passes national certification exam
Nationally certified veterinary anesthesia technicians Amanda Shelby, Terry Torres and Jennifer Sagar are shown in the new surgery induction area inside the new UF Small Animal Hospital on Nov. 17. With them is Rue, a patient who was awaiting a procedure on her eye. With Shelby having just passed her certification examination, the UF Veterinary Hospitals now have on staff three of only five nationally certified veterinary anesthesia technicians in the state. (Photo by Sarah Carey/University of Florida)
The University of Florida Veterinary Hospitals now employ three of only five nationally certified veterinary technician anesthetists in the state.
Amanda Shelby, who has worked for UF’s Veterinary Hospitals since June 2006, has passed her examination to become a veterinary technician specialist in anesthesia. The examination is offered annually by the Academy of Veterinary Technician Anesthetists.
Shelby learned Oct. 27 that she had passed her examination.
“I feel truly honored to become a certified veterinary technician specialist in anesthesia alongside my colleagues,” Shelby said. “I believe it is important to demonstrate the desire for knowledge and allows the client and referring veterinarians the assurance that our patients receive the best care.”
Animals require anesthesia for surgery and invasive procedures.
The veterinary technician specialist in anesthesia provides pets with exceptional anesthetic care before, during and after the procedure, according to the academy’s website, which says that certification in this area promotes patient safety, consumer protection, professionalism and excellence in anesthesia care.
Applicants must have at least three years of experience as a certified veterinary technician in anesthesia. In addition, applicants must master several advanced anesthesia skills and log at least 50 cases in the year prior to application. Four detailed case reports must be submitted, and at least 40 hours of continuing education relating to anesthesia over a five-year span must be amassed.
Other technicians at the UF Veterinary Hospitals who are certified by the academy are Terry Torres, who in 2007 became the first to reach that milestone, and Jenn Sager, who became certified in 2008.