The Prevention of Injuries in Veterinary Occupational Tasks (PIVOT) Study is a pilot research study that aims to create healthier work places for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants. Veterinary workers have rates of occupational injury and illness that match or exceed those in human health care workers. Such injuries place veterinary workers as well as their close contacts at risk of zoonotic diseases. The Center for One Health Research will use an innovative One Health model to assess risk factors for injury in veterinary workers, and design and implement effective educational programs for prevention of such injuries.
- Focus groups (Seattle area only): Small animal veterinary personnel will participate in group interviews where we will discuss factors that encourage and discourage the use of best practices in clinical practice to prevent physical injury (bites, scratches, etc.) and needlestick injuries. This study is limited to small animal personnel living in or around the Seattle area. Participants will be required to provide their own transportation to the focus group site.
- Task observation (Seattle metropolitan area only): Small animal veterinary workers will be observed while at work conducting their normal routine for a period of 2 hours. This study is limited to small animal personnel living in or around the Seattle area.
- Online Survey (Washington State): Veterinary workers across the state will be invited to complete this online survey of common hazards in veterinary practice. Results from this study will help to determine the prevalence and severity of exposures to physical hazards in clinical practice. This portion of the study is open to all clinical personnel. There are not restrictions for animal focus.