Veterinary Technology Distance Learning Aggressive Animal and Injury Policy

Purpose and Scope

This policy provides guidance to ensure the safety of students during clinical mentorship tasks, especially when dealing with aggressive or dangerous animals. This policy is available to students in the Purdue Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Technology Distance Learning (VTDL) Student Handbook and mentorship course syllabi.

Policy Statement

Veterinary medicine inherently involves risks, including the risk of personal injury. Students are expected to exercise caution and use comprehensive safety measures when engaging in clinical tasks. This includes the avoidance of aggressive or dangerous animals whenever possible and remaining vigilant about the patient’s physical status, including its rabies vaccination status.

Risk of Injury

Interactions with animals can lead to injuries such as bites, scratches, or puncture wounds. These injuries may expose individuals to biological hazards present in saliva, secretions, and blood. Students must employ preventative measures including appropriate restraint techniques, personal protective equipment (PPE), and obtaining pre-exposure vaccinations to minimize the risk of such injuries.

Procedure in Case of Injury

Immediate Response

The injured area must be thoroughly washed with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. Anyone assisting with the treatment of the wound must wear glovesthroughout the process.

Medical Attention

The student must seek immediate medical attention from a physician or qualified medical professional. It is advisable to visit an Urgent Care facility to ensure timely treatment. The student isrequired to provide a detailed report of the incident including the date, type of injury, and initial steps taken for treatment. This report must be submitted to their Purdue Veterinary Technology course instructor.

Follow-Up

The course instructor will forward the incident report to the program director for further action in accordance with Purdue policies. The student must also report any ongoing care, updates, or further treatment related to the original injury to the program director.

Refusal to Treat Aggressive Animals

Students on clinical mentorships have the right to refuse treatment to any animal if they believe their skill level does not suffice to manage the animal safely and effectively. Students must communicate their concerns to their clinical mentorship supervisor (either a DVM or a credentialed veterinary technician) upon encountering an aggressive animal. The clinical mentorship supervisor, along with the program Clinical Mentorship Coordinator (as needed), will guide the student on how to proceed safely.

This policy ensures that VTDL students are adequately protected and informed about handling potentially dangerous clinical situations, thus promoting a safer learning environment.