I had my second "interview' today for a vet tech position. I have not had any schooling which is ok with our vet. But I was there for some spay and neuter sergeries. I got very queezy with the blood for these surgeries. I really want the position and they are going to have me come another day again during some surgeries. Any advice on getting over the queeziness? I didn't know I got queezy with blood. I am not afraid of it in the least! Thanks!

OK, it's not quite the same, but during my 1st senior year of college, I took comparative anatomy  (involved lots of dissection) and worked for a PhD student in a nutrition lab doing some stomach-churning things to "sacrified" rats.  For me, it was just a matter of exposing myself to the blood and guts several times.  After awhile, I was able to forget that it was once a cuddly creature and was able to focus on the more clinical aspects of my job/class. 

Sounds like you really want the job (and who could blame you!), so I'd take your vet up on any opportunities he/she offers to hang out during surgery.  Maybe it's just a matter of exposing yourself to the situation a few times and getting used to what you see. 

Usually the problem is quite temporary.  I remember a student passing out once and all she could do was express disbelief that guts were warm.......  I don't know what she was expecting.  Everything in there is warm and a little slimy so be prepared.  The smell is blood and tissue burning from the electric cautery or Bovie.

Eat lightly and here's an old trick.  Put some Vick's Vapo Rub under or in your nose right before you go in.  You won't smell anything.  And any nasal congestion you have will be gone.  Truly there's not much difference between a surgeon and a plumber.  You just have to put everything back together the same way you took it apart.  Most of the time, you will just do the same stuff over and over.  It becomes quite routine.  Just like any other job.

Good luck!

I find that the smell is more debilitating than the sight of blood. Blood has a very strong smell. I try to focus on the technical parts of what I am doing and a lot of the stomach turning parts will fade into the background as you engage your brain.

Good luck with the job. Dan

I forgot about the smell of drilling or cutting bone. That is something to remember.

Dan

In time, you won't even notice.  Helping animals is incredibly rewarding.

Now learn to tie surgical knots.  Practice with dental floss tied on a doorknob.  Practice till you can do it automatically!  Mostly with one hand.