All research personnel must receive training, demonstrate proficiency, and be certified by the Attending Veterinarian (AV) before performing anethesia and surgery unsupervised. Training components may include:

1. Complete Required CITI training;
2. Observe and assist AV or experienced, qualified personnel perform anethesia and surgery;
3. Perform anethesia and surgery, including pre-operative procedure, under direct supervision of AV until competent;
4. Demonstrate proficiency and thorough post-operative observational skills to the AV (not applicable for non-survival surgery certification).

The Proficiency Criteria for Research Animal Surgery form contains proficiency criteria.

Regulatory References:

USDA AWA Regulations (9 CFR 2.32)
PHS Policy (IV.C.1.f.)