Did you know that spending some time & money up front to create protocols & SOPs can save you time & money later on? And usually, quite a lot?
What's the difference?
Protocols are a set of rules or standards to guide conduct or format, whereas standard operating procedures (SOPs) are a set of written instructions that describes the step-by-step process that must be taken to properly perform a routine activity.
These two "things" work hand in hand. Protocols, in the veterinary sense, usually refer to treatment protocols, or specific instructions to treat a disease. These protocols should include:
Disease identification: age groups commonly affected, clinical signs
Medications
Medication dosages, usually by weight
Medication route of administration
Next steps if treatment fails
Recordkeeping guidelines
Treatment protocols are often formulated by your veterinarian, or with help from your veterinarian. They should also include references to relevant SOPs, which give specific instructions on the actual steps to treatment (for example, how to give a subcutaneous injection).
SOPs should be written for each individual farm & include:
Name of procedure
Description of why & when procedure would be performed
Equipment list
Steps for procedure
However, there are many veterinary procedures that should be done the same way on EVERY FARM! We have put together SOP Collections that include common veterinary or husbandry procedures, organized by species & production group.
So how does this save me & my program money?
Spending the time & money up front to create protocols & SOPs allows for a more transparent, organized operation.
If everyone is trained in common diseases on your farm, those diseases are more likely to be recognized before they get bad.
If those diseases are treated as soon as they are recognized according to the treatment protocols laid out by your veterinarian, those diseases are less likely to progress to the point of major illness & lasting damage.
Protocols should also include instructions & timelines for when to call the veterinarian if they don't work, so everyone has a better idea of when it's time to call.
SOPs are written records of how everyone should be trained to perform those procedures & when someone isn't sure, they have a set of step-by-step written instructions to guide them.
Performing procedures the same way each time reduces risk of injury & mistakes, establishes a written record of husbandry, & is part of plain old good agricultural practices!
Performing procedures the same way each time & having a written record also allows for training to take place, so that it's not just ONE PERSON who can do these procedures - all ag teachers or farm employees can be trained to help with these procedures, helping to spread the responsibility & allowing the main farm manager some flexibility
Okay, sounds great. Where do I start then?
Well, you should start by checking out our SOP collections & talking with your veterinarian about formulating written treatment protocols for diseases you commonly deal with. If you don't have a veterinarian, or they're not quite sure where to start, contact us to set up a consultation to get you started!
Go forth & create!
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