Group
Occupation
341231 Veterinary Nurse
Latest release
Consultation draft: Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA)
Reference period
August 2026
Released
17/08/2026
First release
341231 Veterinary Nurse
Cares for animals under treatment or in temporary residence at veterinary facilities, and assists Veterinarians to perform procedures and operations.
Specialisations
- Critical Care and Emergency Veterinary Nurse
- Equine Veterinary Nurse
Skill level: 3
Main tasks
- Provides care and support to animals under treatment or in temporary residence at veterinary facilities
- Assists Veterinarians in performing procedures and operations on animals
- Prepares animals for surgery, including administering anaesthesia and monitoring vital signs
- Administers medications and treatments to animals as directed by Veterinarians
- Assists with diagnostic procedures such as taking X-rays or collecting samples for laboratory testing
- Provides post-operative care to animals, including monitoring their recovery and administering medications
- Ensures hygiene processes are maintained, including cleaning and sterilising equipment and facilities
- Provides basic grooming and hygiene care to animals, such as bathing and grooming
- Educates pet owners on proper animal care, and provides advice on nutrition, exercise and preventive health care
- Assists with euthanasia procedures and provides emotional support to pet owners