Perceptual differences in Day One Competencies and international criteria for competency standardization for animal health technicians: a survey on Day One Competencies of animal health technicians

Although a national certification system for animal health technician (AHT) was implemented in Korea in 2022, standardized Day One Competencies for AHTs have yet to be established. The absence of such standards has led to curricular variability among training institutions and uncertainty regarding the clinical readiness of AHT graduates. This study aimed to investigate perceptual differences among educators, practicing veterinarians, and AHT students concerning essential Day One Competencies for AHTs in Korea. Additionally, the study sought to identify internationally recognized core competencies for AHTs. A nationwide survey was developed based on the National Competency Standards framework, comprising 169 items across 9 domains of job-related competencies. A total of 196 responses were collected, including 20 from educators, 50 from veterinarians, and 126 from AHT students. Overall, students rated the importance of Day One Competencies lower than the other groups. Educators assigned the highest importance to most competency areas, particularly postoperative care, pharmaceutical management, and support for diagnostic imaging. In contrast, veterinarians emphasized outpatient care, inpatient care, and assistance with clinical pathology diagnostics as critical areas. A review of Day One Competency frameworks from the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia revealed consistent emphasis on core areas such as nursing, diagnostic and therapeutic support, record-keeping, and communication. These findings underscore the urgent need to develop a standardized, practice-based competency framework for AHT education in Korea, aligned with accreditation and certification requirements.