Can a veterinary technician in New Mexico perform surgery without direct supervision?

In New Mexico, veterinary practice regulations require that veterinary technicians must operate under direct supervision when performing surgical procedures. This means that a licensed veterinarian must be present and directly supervise the task being performed by the technician. Direct supervision ensures that the veterinarian is available to make decisions and intervene immediately if necessary, thus prioritizing the safety and welfare of the animal and supporting the professional ethics of veterinary medicine.

Other answers suggest varying conditions under which a technician might perform surgery without direct supervision, but these contradict established regulatory guidelines. For instance, while experience might enhance a technician's ability, it does not override the legal requirement for supervision during surgical procedures. Additionally, the notion that technicians could handle minor procedures unsupervised lacks specificity and misrepresents the requirement for direct oversight. Lastly, even a suggestion that exceptions might be allowed if specified by a veterinarian does not align with standard practices, as the regulations do not allow for these situations unless expressly stated in the legal framework governing veterinary practice in New Mexico. Thus, the emphasis on direct supervision is fundamental for maintaining safety and standards in veterinary care.