FM1 Pt2-4 Reception & Waiting area Flashcards
What is the importance of the receptionist in a cat-friendly clinic?
The receptionist plays a crucial role in creating a positive first impression by being cat-friendly and guiding the client to the cat-only area, instructing on placing the carrier off the ground, and offering a towel or blanket.
Why is a cat’s initial experience in the veterinary practice important?
It sets the tone for the cat’s assessment of the environment’s safety, helping to reduce stress and fear before entering the consultation room.
What are some solutions for creating a cat-friendly waiting area in a small practice?
Providing spare chairs or shelves to elevate carriers, or using cat carrier ‘trees’ to keep carriers off the ground.
What should be considered when creating a separate cat waiting area?
The location, size, and route to and from the area should be carefully planned to avoid passing through noisy or dog-filled areas, which could stress the cats.
Why should the reception desk be located in a large area?
To avoid narrow spaces that could lead to stressful encounters between dogs and cats.
What can be done to reduce stress from direct visual contact between cats in a waiting area?
Use partitions or cover baskets with blankets to prevent direct visual contact between cats.
How can cat clients be encouraged to reduce their cats’ stress while waiting?
Encourage them to bring familiar-smelling blankets or towels from home to cover the cat’s carrier.
What should be avoided in the reception area to reduce stress for cats?
Avoid spraying air-fresheners, allowing staff to wear strong perfumes, and positioning the reception desk in narrow areas where cats and dogs might encounter each other.
How can the waiting area be designed to prevent cats from encountering dogs?
Provide elevated perches or shelves that are inaccessible to dogs, and ensure these are about 1.2 meters (4 feet) off the ground.
What measures should be taken when clients are paying or collecting medication with their cats?
Provide an area where carriers can be placed off the ground, such as raised shelves or compartments, to prevent stress during interactions with other animals.
How can clinics make their cat-friendly efforts known to clients?
Inform clients through Facebook, email, or waiting room displays, and provide client information leaflets on cat-friendly practices.
What should be displayed in the waiting area to reinforce the clinic’s cat-friendly commitment?
Display evidence of feline-related continuing education for staff, membership in cat organizations, and information about cat breeds and local cat-related contacts.
Why is it important to consider the depth of shelves in the waiting area?
To ensure that carriers do not fall off easily, providing security for the cats.
What products should be available in the waiting area for cat clients?
A range of cat products selected for quality and safety, such as collars with safety snap-release catches, suitable baskets, and safe toys.
What should be avoided in a feline-only waiting area?
Avoid areas near busy receptions or opposite barking dogs, as these can defeat the purpose of having a separate cat-friendly space.
